What is an ultrasound?  Is it safe?

Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to reflect off internal body parts.  The reflected waves are picked up by the probe and relayed to the machine.  The sounds (echoes) are electronically changed into pictures/images.  The machine displays distances and intensities of the echoes on the screen, forming a two dimensional image.  Our technologically advanced machines will take numerous two dimensional images and compile them into one three dimensional image.  According to The National Institute of Health, ultrasound does not produce ionizing radiation and is considered a very safe procedure for both the mother and the fetus.

What is a sonogram?

This is the two dimensional picture created through an ultrasound.  Generally these sonograms are displayed and printed in black and white.  Most hospitals and clinics will use these black and white prints.

What is a 3D/4D/HD Live ultrasound?

A 3D ultrasound is a three dimensional view of your baby, captured as a photo or sonogram.  3D ultrasounds create depth providing more surface details.  With a 3D ultrasound, you will be able to see your baby's cute little fingers and toes.  With a 4D ultrasound, these 3D images are continuously connected, creating live motion. With HD Live, the 4D image is now using fetal realistic view - making the image even clearer and more realistic.

When is the optimal time to come in for a viewing?

The question you need to answer first is, what stage of you baby would you want to see? 3D/4D/HD Live ultrasounds can be taken anytime during your pregnancy.  The ideal timeframe for performing these ultrasounds is the 26th through the 32nd week.  Many expectant mothers come in two to four times to see their baby's growth. 

Can a 3D/4D/HD Live ultrasound take the place on an ultrasound from my doctor’s office?

Absolutely not! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound must already be receiving prenatal care with a healthcare provider and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to diagnose any other pregnancy related issues.  

Do I need to make an appointment?

Yes, appointments are required and should be made as soon as possible.  As expected, the most highly desired appointments do fill up quickly.  We will do our best to accommodate you, so same day appointments and irregular hours may be possible for an additional fee (schedule permitting).  The bottom line is, there are only a few weeks of optimal viewing, and we will do our best to make sure you can get the best experience possible.  The ideal timeframe is 26-32 weeks, so please try to schedule at least a week ahead. 

What should I wear to my appointment?

We suggest you wear what is comfortable to you.  The more comfortable you are, the more relaxed the baby will be.  At the same time, two piece clothing is required.  Dresses are not recommended, however we can provide drapery if necessary.

How long does a 3D/4D/HD Live ultrasound take?

If the baby is cooperating, we will be able to complete the scans in about 20 minutes.  In case the baby is not cooperating, i.e. facing the back/spine, it may take a little longer, or you may need to schedule another appointment.  If you need to return for another appointment because we were unable to produce quality photos, we will reschedule a FREE session.  If a third session is needed, we will only charge $50.  Please allow about 45 minutes for the entire session, from registration paperwork, to the ultrasound, to complete the video and picture selections.

What do I need to do to prepare for my appointment?

Stay hydrated the ENTIRE week prior to your appointment by drinking minimum 64 ounces of water per day, or your doctor’s recommended water intake.  You do not need to have a full bladder, so please empty your bladder and relax.  The more relaxed you are, the baby will be more inclined to move, resulting in a better imaging experience.

Can I bring friends and family to my appointment?

You are able to bring a maximum of 6 guests to your appointment.  This maximum is to allow everyone to be comfortably seated.  If you have more guests, please let us know.  We will do our best to accommodate your group.  Appointments do start promptly, so please make sure to arrive 5 minutes before your appointment time.  We have a comfortable exam room with a flat screen TV to help your family and friends enjoy the experience with you. 

Will I always get beautiful 3D pregnancy pictures?

In most cases you will.  Every baby scans differently, depending on the gestational age, position, amount of fluid, placental location and mother's body habitus.  However, we promise to make every effort to obtain the best images.

Is the 3D/4D/HD Live ultrasound covered by my insurance?

No.  This is an elective procedure and therefore not covered by insurance as a medical procedure.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.  A credit card is required in order to hold your appointment, but you may pay with cash at the time of your visit.

Where is your office?

We are located in the Jefferson Plaza. The address is 1732 Jefferson Street, Suite 9 in Napa, CA.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require a credit card number to hold your appointment.  As long as any reschedules and cancellations occur more than 24 hours prior to the appointment, there will be no charge.  There is a $50 cancellation fee for cancellations within 24 hours of the appointment and also for no shows.

DNA Gender Test FAQ’s

Can I use this test if I am having a multiple birth pregnancy?

Yes, you can. If we detect the presence of male DNA then we can confi­rm at least one of the babies is male. If we do not detect male DNA then we can confi­rm you are only having female babies.

Will a previous pregnancy carrying a male affect my test result?

A previous pregnancy carrying a male has no effect on the accuracy of our test.

How do I calculate when I can take the test?

You are test ready at 6 weeks after the first day of your Last Menstrual Period (LMP) or 34 weeks before your Estimated Due Date (EDD).

Use this link to see when you can take the DNA test!

http://sneakpeektest.com/calculator/

Can I use this test if I am not 6 weeks into pregnancy?

No, do not take this test until you are at least 6 weeks into pregnancy. We will not process any sample that does not meet our minimum threshold of gestational age. Our test ready threshold is 6 weeks after the first day of your Last Menstrual Period (LMP) or 34 weeks before your Estimated Due Date (EDD).

Use this link to see when you can take the DNA test!

http://sneakpeektest.com/calculator/

If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call 707-266-6174.