What is an ultrasound scan?

It is a painless procedure. It does not use x-rays. It can be used safely during pregnancy.

What happens during a scan?

Gel will be applied to your skin. This allows the sensor to slide easily over the skin. You may be asked to take deep breaths and hold your breath for a moment.

What are the risks and benefits?

It is a painless procedure. It does not use x-rays. It can be used safely during pregnancy. For a diagnostic ultrasound scan there are no known harmful effect to humans.

For more information about the potential risks of ultrasound visit The British Medical Ultrasound Society.

What are the limitations of ultrasound?

Ultrasound waves have difficulty penetrating bone and air, so organs such as the lungs cannot be scanned.

The stomach and bowel are best examined in other ways such as x-rays or by having cameras inserted into them.

What is the difference between a 3D and a 4D scan?

• A 3D scan is a still image of a 3 dimensional picture of the baby.
• A 4D scan is a video of a 3 dimensional picture of the baby.

What information do you have about scans in Luton with the NHS?

We have a dedicated page with directions, instructions at NHS Scan in Luton.