• What is the best time to schedule a nondiagnostic (keepsake) sonogram?

We suggest greater than 26 weeks to ensure sufficient fat on the face and body for those images you see published.   

• What is essential for the best images?

Adequate fluid around the baby, fetal movement, and fat on the baby help create the optimum image.  

• Can I see my baby if I wait greater than 32 weeks?

Yes.  What we are able to observe is dependent on what your baby is doing.  The further you are in your pregnancy the more remarkable the expressions and features.  But your fluid does diminish so I require the complete exam to allow time to get you up to move around, go to the bathroom, give you a coke to drink.  Whatever it seems will make you baby or the fluid move into the most advantageous position. 

• Can you tell me what my baby weighs?

To estimate the weight the sonographer has to measure the baby and have the interpreting physician review the report.  This is the diagnostic exam.  You need written consent from your physician to have this exam. 

• Can you tell me the sex of the baby without my requesting the diagnostic exam?

Certainly!  We prefer 18 weeks and greater if you want the simple 2D exam to determine sex. 

• If I want to keep my baby’s sex a secret can I still have a 3D/4D sonogram?

Definitely.  Simply make that clear on the patient information sheet.  We will simply not go near the baby’s bottom. 

• Will PICS accept my insurance?

We do not bill insurance.  We are a fee for service office.  We will assist you in requesting reimbursement for those diagnostic exams that your insurance company allows. 

• Is ultrasound safe?

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine’s official statement:

“No confirmed biological effects on patients or instrument operators caused by exposure at intensities typical of present diagnostic ultrasound equipment have ever been reported.  Although the possibility exists that biological effects may be identified in the future, current data indicates that the benefits to patients outweigh the risk, if any, that may be present. 

• Who will perform the exam?

Jeanette Burlbaw BS RDMS FSDMS.  She is the owner and sole sonographer in the office.  You will receive her resume when you request information. 

• Does an ultrasound exam guarantee a normal baby?

No.  Detection of congenital anomalies is dependent on many factors such as gestational age, maternal habitués and fetal position.  Most common missed anomalies are cardiac in origin.  Many are developmental; meaning in some cases an anomaly, which is detectable by sonography, may not be apparent at the time the study is done.

 

 

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