Ultrasound Imaging

FAQs
Why should I choose to have an ultrasound performed at Blooming?
These simple reasons:

  • All scans are performed by a RDMS sonographers (not nurses or staff that have been trained just to take baby pictures) with years of experience in performing medical ultrasound scans for area OB’s. Experienced sonographers help insure your safety and that of your baby and that the very best images are obtained.
  • We are the ONLY elective ultrasound center in Austin that includes a full service Pregancy Spa, and our treatments use all natural and toxin free products.
  • We use the state-of-the-art GE Voluson 730 Pro to complete all ultrasound scans.
  • We follow the professional guidelines established for the length of scans and intensity of sound waves. Not all centers do.
  • We follow the guidelines of the The American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine, which offers the following statement: “AIUM encourages patients to make sure that practitioners using ultrasound have received specific training in fetal imaging to ensure the best possible results.”  We agree with this statement! Make sure where ever you go that these guidelines are matched.
  • We have a locally practicing affiliated Board Certified OB/GYN that consults with our sonographers as required, and insures our facility is operating in a manner consistent with generally accepted medical practices.
  • If you want to know gender, we’ll guarantee our accuracy…or your money back on our Gender Determination package!
What is Ultrasound?
Diagnostic ultrasound is the use of high frequency sound waves to visualize structures within the body. A small device called a transducer is used to send sound waves into the body, which are then reflected off of internal structures. The returning sound waves (echoes) are captured by the same transducer and sent to the attached equipment which electronically changes the echoes into a picture (image) of the internal structures.
What is 4D Ultrasound?
“4D” is shorthand for “four-dimensional” – the fourth dimension being time. As far as ultrasound is concerned, 4D Ultrasound is the latest ultrasound technology and it is exclusive to GE. 4D Ultrasound takes three-dimensional ultrasound images and adds the element of time to the process. The result: live-action images of your unborn child. We use the state-of-the-art GE Voluson 730 to complete all ultrasound examinations, as seen in the GE television commercial and many printed articles from around the world. This machine is the best 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasound machine available. Please note, many organizations claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they use older or inferior technology.
Is it safe?
Diagnostic ultrasound has been in use for over 35 years. The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has issued the following statement regarding the safety of ultrasound:“There are no confirmed adverse biological effects on patients or instrument operators caused by exposures from diagnostic ultrasound instruments. Although the possibility exists that such biological effects may be identified in the future, current data indicate that the benefits to patients of the prudent use of diagnostic ultrasound outweigh the risks, if any, that may be present.”  The ultrasound imaging performed by Blooming uses ultrasound energy subject to the same limits as conventional (2D) ultrasound to create our 3D and 4D images. The amazing pictures and videos generated at Blooming are not the result of increased ultrasound frequency or power levels, but a combination of better transducer (the probe that rolls across mom’s belly) technology and sophisticated software interpretation of the sound waves generated.
Why do you still offer two-dimensional (2-D) Ultrasound?
Two-dimensional imaging is ideal for viewing heartbeat, real-time fetal activity, hair (after 27 weeks) and gender. We always include 2D ultrasound with 3D as they work together to show a full picture of the baby’s features and activity. The benefit of regular ultrasound is its ability to look “through” some obstacles, such as a hand on the face. Also, the real-time movement shown in 2D ultrasound as well as your 4D session can be recorded on your video.
Do I Need a Note From My Health Care Provider to Visit Blooming?
It is essential that you are currently receiving care from a Prenatal Health Care Provider, and we must have their approval. We take care of that for you, by faxing them a Physicians Authorization for Limited Diagnostic Ultrasound. We put your health and safety first, and we seek to build trusting relationships with the medical community. We are an elective service and do not replace any element of your prenatal care. Our ultrasound sessions include a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, the placental location,  and the fluid level in the uterus. A report from your session is sent to your doctor.  In the event that something unusual is seen in a scan, we notify your doctor immediately.
What kind of training do your Sonographers receive?
Blooming only employs Sonographers who have gone through an independent and accredited multi-year program in medical ultrasound and who also have experience in OB scanning. All of our Sonographers must hold the certification of ARDMS, which is the gold standard in certification. This allows us to provide you with both peace of mind and reliable imaging.  Believe it or not there are no regulations in most states for who can perform ultrasounds.  As a result, there are many facilities that do not employ medically trained sonographers. Please make sure you ask, wherever you choose to go.
Do You Accept Competitor Coupons and Offers?
Of course! But, because packages may be structured differently at different centers, please let us know when you are making your appointment what your coupon says so we can let you know how that coupon will apply to our pricing. Coupon must also be presented at time of appointment and competitor must be within a 50 miles radius.
When is a Good Time for an Ultrasound?
Anytime is good for an imaging ultrasound, but you will see different things at different times. Many women choose to come in twice or more to see their baby at various stages (and we have specially discounted packages available for that reason). Between 16-21 weeks, we can determine gender and you can see the amazing development already well underway. We typically recommend a 2D Ultrasound during this time. Later, as babies build more fat, more facial features can be seen.  3D/4D imaging depends upon the baby’s position, size and movement, so we cannot guarantee image quality due to those factors. Between 24-26 weeks is a good time as facial features are really developing (and then come again at 30 weeks to see a big jump in development!) Between 27-32 is the BEST TIME because facial features are well defined and the baby still has room to move around, so we can get a great variety of pictures.  Between 33-36 weeks is still a good time, but because of increased crowding in the womb we may not get as much variety. After 36 weeks is difficult because the baby may already be in position for birth and hard to see!
What will determine the quality of the images?
Unfortunately not every ultrasound session produces textbook perfect images. However, using the best technology available and experienced sonographers ~ we do our best for every client to obtain the very best images possible!  The quality of your images are determined by the following factors, and are outside of our control:

  • Position of the baby. The baby’s position has the greatest impact on image quality. Many cooperate with lots of open face views, smiles and yawns. Others however, hide behind feet, hands and the placenta. Some babies seem a little too anxious for their first portrait, and press their face right against the uterine wall. Other “camera” shy babies face the mother’s spine, giving us a great view of their back. If your baby is not in a good position, our sonographers will use appropriate approved procedures to encourage the baby to change position. YOU CAN HELP BY DRINKING A GLASS OF FRUIT JUICE ABOUT 45-60 MIN BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME SO YOUR BABY HAS SOME ENERGY FOR HIS/HER FIRST PHOTO SESSION.
  • Tissue density. Since ultrasound waves must pass through the skin, adipose tissue, and then the uterine wall to reach the baby, the composition and thickness of skin, tissue, and the uterine wall can impact image quality.
  • Amniotic fluid levels. The amount of fluid surrounding the baby can also impact image quality. More fluid, creates better clarity!! YOU CAN HELP THIS BY DRINKING PLENTY OF FLUIDS FOR THE FEW DAYS BEFORE YOUR ULTRASOUND (AS YOU SHOULD BE THROUGHOUT YOUR PREGNANCY!).
If we can’t get you pictures of your baby’s face, we will let you come back for a return visit, but due to the factors above, we can not guarantee perfect pictures.
Will You Be Able to Determine The Gender of My Baby?
We pride ourselves on our skill and accuracy and gender determination/verification when it is desired. However, we will never guess or give percentages on gender. If, for any reason, we cannot determine gender and you are at least 16 weeks pregnant, we will invite you back for a free return visit (must return within 2 weeks of original appointment for free return).  If you want to know sooner than 16 weeks, we sell Intelligender Home Test Kits that can predict the gender of your baby as early as 10 weeks, and then you get to apply that receipt as a “coupon” towards your ultrasound!  You don’t want to know gender?  Not to worry. Our sonographers always ask if you want to know gender before they get started. If you don’t want to know, they can insure that you won’t.
Can I Have My Friends and Family With Me?
Anyone you want may join you for your experience at Blooming. It’s a wonderful way for family members to see and bond with your unborn child, and so much fun to see! We hear lots of ooohs and ahhhs coming out of the imaging room, as well and giggles and tears of joy. Blooming’s Imaging room is equipped with a 42″ flat screen and comfortable seating lounge, so that your guests can relax and enjoy the imaging!
Do I Need a Full Bladder for My Blooming Session?
No. (hallelujah!) However, we do recommend keeping your body hydrated several days before your visit. Water, not soda, gets the best results.
Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?
Our service is an elective procedure, and you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash, American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and FSA cards.
Do I Need an Appointment?
Yes, we schedule by appointment. We are not able to accept walk-ins. Occasionally, same day visits can be accommodated; however, we strongly recommend that you call in advance for appointment availability. Please note that weekends and evenings are in high demand and do fill up quickly.
When Will I Get My Pictures and Video?
All pictures, videos, CD’s, DVDs, etc. will be ready to take with you when you leave your appointment, unless you order duplicate videos or DVD’s, in which case, duplicates may need to be mailed.
Why do the Ultrasound images have a golden hue?
Our sonographers have the option of selecting different tints in reviewing images. GE has found that the golden hue is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and shows excellent shadow and highlights. However, if you would like to see your baby’s picture in a different tint, please let your sonographer know.
Why would I want my images to be saved on a CD?
Images stored on a CD are done so in a digital format that will not deteriorate over time, unlike printed images. Further, CD’s are non-magnetic and are not prone to file damage that can occur to images stored on a floppy disk. Kept in the right environment, CD’s are estimated to have a shelf life of 25 years or more. Clients who store their CD’s in a safe, secure environment and who backup their images to another CD or similar technology, help ensure access to all the images on the CD for many years to come. If a printed image is destroyed or turns yellow over time, the image can be accessed on the CD and reprinted in its original resolution. Clients want the images stored on a CD so that they have access to the original digital images that were created during the ultrasound session. They can reprint favorite images as many times as needed, they can send copies of the images to family and friends over the Internet and they can backup the images to help ensure access to their precious keepsake over the years.
So what can I do with the images on my Blooming CD?
The images on your CD include high resolution Jpeg images. These are full digital, high resolution images and can be cropped, edited, cut and pasted as needed. What a client does with these images is only limited by the client’s imagination. Here are a few things we know other client’s have done with their images:

  • Emailed selected images from the CD to family and friends.
  • Placed selected images on an Internet web site.
  • Placed images in a MS PowerPoint presentation to be shown during a baby shower or family reunion.
  • Printed images from the CD for invitations to a baby shower.
  • Printed images from the CD for scrapbook purposes.
  • Placed printed images from the CD for a baby book of remembrance.
  • Printed images and framed them to place on the walls at home.
What is Included in the Limited Diagnostic Report?
When you have an Elective Ultrasound performed at Blooming, our RDMS Sonographers will provide a report to your OB/Midwife that includes the following information:

  • Number of babies
  • Heart rate
  • Position of the baby
  • Gender Determination (if desired)
  • Position of the placenta
  • Fluid level
How Should I Prepare for My Ultrasound to Get the Best Pictures?
Make sure you drink PLENTY of fluids during the says leading up to your appointment (as you should already be doing!). This will help with your baby’s amniotic fluid levels. On the day of your ultrasound, do not eat a big heavy meal right before your session. Try to have something light to eat and a glass of fruit juice about an hour before hand. We want the baby to be active, and not hiding and sleeping.
What are the Benefits of Prenatal Ultrasound?
Extensive research has been conducted on the use of ultrasound during pregnancy. Ultrasounds have been proven to increase the bonding between Mom and her baby and to produce improvements in the baby’s health and size at birth. Mom’s who have “seen” their babies feel more connected to them and have a stronger sense of well-being/reassurance about their pregnancies. Ultrasounds typically result in an increased commitment to healthier prenatal behaviors such as improved diet and exercise as well as smoking cessation. And, it’s probably no surprise that Moms who are more relaxed about their pregnancies also tend to sleep better. The benefits don’t just apply to Mom….Studies have also reported significant reductions in stress for Dad after seeing his baby with an ultrasound.
Can I use Spa Finder Gift Certificates for My Ultrasound?
Absolutely!