Elective Fetal Ultrasound
As you step into Corridor or Muscatine Radiology for your elective fetal ultrasound, you’re immediately welcomed by a warm, calming atmosphere designed to make this special moment feel truly memorable. The reception area offers a peaceful space with soft lighting, friendly staff, and thoughtful touches like freshly brewed coffee and comfortable seating. During your ultrasound, skilled technologists guide you through the process with care and compassion, ensuring you feel relaxed and informed every step of the way. Whether you're seeing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time or watching tiny movements on the screen, the experience is both intimate and awe-inspiring, made even more meaningful by the supportive environment and expert attention provided by these trusted imaging centers.
3D/4D
Elective Fetal Ultrasound
Best Between 25-32 Weeks
A 3D ultrasound works just like a regular ultrasound. It uses sound waves to create images of your baby. But instead of a flat, black-and-white picture, it creates a three-dimensional image. This means you can actually see your baby’s face, hands, feet, and body shape more clearly.
A 4D ultrasound adds the element of time, so you can see your baby moving in real time. You might catch them yawning, stretching, or wiggling and it creates a short video of that moment.
Elective Fetal Ultrasound
Gender Reveal
Best Between 16-18 Weeks
"Get ready for a joyful moment! A gender reveal ultrasound is a fun and special way to discover and celebrate whether you're expecting a sweet baby boy or girl!"
3D/4D Elective Ultrasound
with 8K Photos
Best Between 25-32 Weeks
8K prenatal imaging is a special way to enhance your regular 3D or 4D ultrasound pictures. It uses advanced software to add realistic details like natural lighting, skin tones, and depth. This creates a lifelike, high-quality image of your baby’s face, helping you see your little one more clearly before birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is an Elective Fetal Ultrasound Safe for My Baby?
A: This is an elective exam, and a great choice because it doesn’t use any ionizing radiation. Ultrasound is the preferred method for viewing the fetus during pregnancy because it’s safe, gentle, and effective.
Q: What is the difference between a medically necessary ultrasound exam and an elective ultrasound exam?
A: An elective ultrasound does not diagnose prgnancy abnormalities. A medically necessary ultrasound exam during pregnancy is one that is ordered by a healthcare provider to address a specific clinical concern or to monitor important aspects of maternal or fetal health. These exams are not done just for viewing the baby or for keepsake purposes. They’re performed when there’s a valid medical reason.
Q: Does elective fetal ultrasound replace a medically necessary ultrasound?
A: No, they do not. Corridor Radiology and Muscatine Radiology also offer diagnostic ultrasounds for a variety of different reasons, including OB Ultrasound. You can learn more about our other ultasound offerings by visiting our Ultrasound Page.
Q: Do I need to have established care with a doctor prior to booking my elective ultrasound?
A: We need to have a Primary Care Provider, Midwife, or OBGyn on file to perform the exam. You will be asked for this information upon scheduling your session.
Q: What happens if the sonorgrapher sees something unexpected during my session?
A: We will notify the provider on file of any unexpect findings. Please note that a radiologist will not be reviewing these images unless notified by a technologist.
Q: What is the ideal stage of pregnancy to schedule an elective fetal ultrasound for the best imaging and experience?
A: For a gender reveal session between 16-18 weeks. For a 3D/4D and 8K session betweek 25 and 32 weeks.
Q: How do I prepair for my elective fetal ultrasound session?
A: We welcome all expectant parents to experience the joy of a 3D/4D ultrasound. if you have a higher body weight, please know that beautiful and clear images are possible. For the best results, we recommend scheduling your appointment after 30 weeks gestation, as this allows time for your baby to develop more facila featyre and fullness.
To optimize image clarity, a higher levvel of amniotic fluid is especially helpful. Staying well-hydrated in the weeks leading up to your appointment, by drinking the recommended amount of water, can make a significiat difference. With proper preparation, many families are able to enjoy stunning images of their little one!
Q: What happens if we can't see the baby well?
A: Our top priority is to provide you with the best possible images of your baby and ensure your experience is both joyful and satisfying. We use state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment to achieve this, but it's important to understand that some factors affecting image quality are beyond our control. These include the location of the placenta, the amount and clarity of amniotic fluid, your baby’s position, and the overall fetal environment.
If we’re unable to determine your baby’s gender or capture clear 4D/HD images during your scheduled appointment due to these factors, we’ll gladly offer a complimentary follow-up session within 14 days to try again.
Q: Can I bring family and friends to my session? If so, how many?
A: For the best experience foreveryone in attendance we recommend the following:
Muscatine Radiology: six people or less
Corridor Radiology: eight people or less
*please note there is limited seating at both facilities, and some participants may be standing.
Q: Does insurance cover my elective fetal ultrasound session?
A: No, elective exams are not typically covered by insurance.
Q: How do I book a session?
A: Scheduling your elective fetal ultrasound session is the same as scheduling an exam at either of our clinics. You may call 319-545-7300 to book at both Corridor and Muscatine Radiology.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We understand that life can be unpredictable. You’re welcome to cancel your session anytime up to 25 hours in advance without any charge. If you need to cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled time, a 25% fee will apply. In the event of a missed appointment without notice, the full session fee will be charged.
Q: What happens if I am running late to my session?
A: If you're running late, please give us a quick call at 318-545-7300 to let us know. We understand that things come up, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you. However, if you're more than ten minutes behind and we’re unable to adjust our schedule, we may need to cancel your appointment. In that case, the full session fee would still apply. Thank you for your understanding!