Pregnancy Ultrasound FAQs

For many pregnancies, 26 to 34 weeks is a popular time for detailed 3D, 4D, and HD images because baby is developing fuller facial features while usually still having room to move.Beautiful images can also be captured earlier or later. Every pregnancy is different, and baby’s position is one of the biggest factors affecting image quality.For twins, families often choose an earlier visit, 25 to 28 weeks because space becomes more limited as the babies grow.

2D ultrasound creates the traditional black-and-white images most parents recognize. 3D ultrasound adds depth to create still images of your baby’s features. 4D ultrasound shows those 3D images in motion, so you may see baby stretching, yawning, smiling, or moving their hands. HD imaging uses advanced lighting and rendering to create a more detailed, realistic view when baby’s position allows.At True Ultrasound, image quality depends on factors such as gestational age, baby’s position, placental location, and the amount of fluid around baby’s face.

Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionizing radiation such as X-rays. The FDA describes diagnostic ultrasound as having an excellent safety record when used prudently by appropriately trained providers. Professional organizations also recommend keeping ultrasound exposure as low as reasonably achievable, known as the ALARA principle.At True Ultrasound, sessions are performed conservatively by an ARDMS-credentialed OB sonographer. Our visits are elective and non-diagnostic and are not a replacement for medically indicated prenatal ultrasound or care from your OB/GYN or other prenatal provider.

No. A doctor’s referral is not required for True Ultrasound’s elective pregnancy ultrasound services.Our visits are designed for bonding and keepsake memories.

No. True Ultrasound provides elective, non-diagnostic pregnancy ultrasound experiences.We do not diagnose medical conditions or replace your routine prenatal ultrasounds. Medical ultrasound examinations performed by your healthcare team are used to evaluate fetal growth, anatomy, placental location, amniotic fluid, and other clinical information.Please continue all recommended prenatal care with your OB/GYN, midwife, or other healthcare provider.

Because True Ultrasound visits are elective and non-diagnostic, a diagnostic medical report is not provided.If you have pain, bleeding, decreased fetal movement, or any other medical concern, please contact your prenatal healthcare provider. Your True Ultrasound visit should never replace evaluation by your medical team.

It depends on what you would like to experience:5 to 10 weeks: Early pregnancy confirmation, bonding and viewing baby’s development6+ weeks:Cardiac activity may become visible depending on gestational age and individual development13+ weeks:Ultrasound gender determination26 to 34 weeks:Popular window for detailed 3D, 4D, and HD facial imagesLater pregnancy:Beautiful images may still be possible depending on baby’s positionEvery pregnancy develops differently, so what can be seen at a particular week may vary.

True Ultrasound offers two options:SneakPeek Early Gender DNA Testing: available starting at 6 weeks.Gender Ultrasound: available starting at 13 weeks, depending on baby’s position.If you are planning a gender reveal, let us know. We can help keep the result a surprise for you.

It happens all the time. Babies may face away, place their hands or feet over their face, or stay close to the placenta or uterine wall.We may try position changes, a short walk, or simply give baby a little time to move.Select packages include a complimentary rescan when baby does not cooperate. Please check our package details for the specific rescan policy. Our Silver and Gold packages currently include a free rescan within two weeks when baby is not cooperative.

For pregnancies under 10 weeks, please arrive with a full bladder unless we have given you different instructions.A full bladder can help improve the viewing window during an early transabdominal ultrasound.After 10 weeks, special bladder preparation is generally not required for our elective pregnancy visits.

Absolutely. 🤍True Ultrasound is designed to be a warm, family-friendly experience, and loved ones are welcome to share the moment with you.If you are planning to bring a large group, contact us before your appointment so we can make sure everyone can be accommodated comfortably.

Yes. What you receive depends on the package you select.Packages may include:Printed black-and-white ultrasound imagesDigital images and videosColor 3D/HD imagesFull-session recordingHeartbeat keepsakes Check the individual package description before booking so you know exactly what is included.

Appointment length depends on the package.True Ultrasound currently offers sessions ranging from approximately 15 to 45 minutes, with shorter 2D visits and longer premium 3D/4D/HD experiences.Please arrive on time so you can enjoy your full scheduled experience.

True Ultrasound is a private-pay elective ultrasound studio, so our services are not billed to insurance.Package pricing is listed on our website so you can choose the experience that works best for you.

We accept major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Venmo, Zelle, and cash.If you have a question about a specific payment method before your visit, please contact us.

True Ultrasound is located in Lake Forest, California, and proudly serves expecting families throughout Orange County.True Ultrasound22622 Lambert St, Suite 301ALake Forest, CA 92630Phone: (949) 328-9675Email: Trueultrasound@outlook.com

Yes, same-day appointments may be available depending on our schedule. We offer elective 2D, 3D/4D and HD pregnancy ultrasound visits in Lake Forest, including gender ultrasound and bonding sessions. Please check online availability or call/text us for last-minute openings.

Wear something comfortable that makes it easy to access your abdomen.A two-piece outfit, such as pants or leggings with a separate top, is usually easiest for a transabdominal ultrasound.

Yes. Having an anterior placenta does not automatically prevent beautiful 3D or HD images.However, if the placenta is close to baby’s face, it may affect the available viewing angle. Baby’s position and the amount of fluid around the face also play an important role.

We love welcoming twin pregnancies. 🤍Because space becomes more limited as twins grow, families often choose their 3D/4D visit a little earlier (25-29 weeks) than with a singleton pregnancy.Twin appointments may require additional time and have an additional fee depending on the package, so please review your selected package before booking.

Complimentary rescans are included with our Silver Peek and Gold Peek packages when baby's position prevents us from getting the intended images during the visit. Rescan availability and timing are based on the package policy. If you begin with a Mini 3D/4D visit, you may also ask about upgrading to Silver or Gold during your appointment.

A 4D ultrasound allows families to watch baby move in real time, including movements such as stretching, yawning, sucking a thumb, or bringing hands to the face. Unlike a still 3D image, 4D ultrasound shows those three-dimensional views in motion.True Ultrasound in Lake Forest offers elective 3D and 4D pregnancy ultrasound experiences for families throughout Orange County. These visits are designed for bonding and keepsake memories.

HD or 5D-style ultrasound uses advanced rendering and lighting technology to create a more realistic view of baby’s facial features and contours from 3D ultrasound data.At True Ultrasound, HD imaging may provide more detailed, lifelike views when baby’s position, gestational age, placental location, and available fluid allow. Image quality varies from pregnancy to pregnancy.

A 2D ultrasound creates traditional black-and-white images that show a flat cross-sectional view of baby. A 3D ultrasound adds depth, creating still images that can show more detail of baby’s face and body.True Ultrasound in Lake Forest offers elective 2D, 3D, 4D, and HD pregnancy ultrasound experiences for families throughout Orange County.

True Ultrasound offers heartbeat plush animal keepsakes at our Lake Forest pregnancy ultrasound studio. Your baby’s heartbeat can be recorded into a sound module and placed inside a cuddly plush animal, creating a meaningful keepsake from your pregnancy.

Yes. At True Ultrasound, families can record baby’s heartbeat as a keepsake during elective pregnancy ultrasound visits.One popular option is our heartbeat plush, where the recorded heartbeat is saved to a sound module and placed inside a stuffed animal so you can replay the memory at home.

Yes. True Ultrasound offers elective early pregnancy and reassurance ultrasound visits for families who would like an extra opportunity to see their baby between medical appointments. Learn more about our Early Reassurance Ultrasound in Orange County.