Ultrasounds are an invaluable tool in monitoring your baby’s growth and well-being—but you don’t need one every week. Whether you’re a first-time mom or adding to your family, understanding the difference between medical and elective scans, and knowing when to schedule them, helps you get the most from each appointment without unnecessary costs or stress.
Medical vs. Elective Ultrasounds
Medical (Diagnostic) Ultrasounds
• Ordered by your healthcare provider to check fetal anatomy, growth, placenta location, or if there’s a concern.
• Covered by insurance when medically necessary.
• Typically include:
- Dating Scan (8–12 weeks) for accurate due date
- Anatomy Scan (18–22 weeks) to examine organs and structures
- Growth Scans if baby’s size or fluid levels warrant extra monitoring
Elective (Keepsake) Ultrasounds
• Optional scans like 3D, 4D, and HDLive offered by Baby Dimensions.
• Provide stunning images and real-time video for bonding and keepsakes.
• Ideal timing: 24–32 weeks when baby’s features are fully formed and there’s still ample amniotic fluid for clear views.
Trimester-By-Trimester Ultrasound Guide
First Trimester (0–13 weeks)
- Dating Scan (8–12 weeks): Confirms pregnancy viability, number of babies, and due date.
- Optional Early Peek (6–8 weeks): You can see the fetal heartbeat on 2D ultrasound—but elective scans before 12 weeks are generally too early for 3D/4D details.
Second Trimester (14–27 weeks)
- Anatomy Scan (18–22 weeks): A comprehensive diagnostic check of fetal organs and structures. Often the first chance for medical gender determination.
- Elective 3D/4D Session (24–28 weeks): Prime window for keepsake imaging—baby’s face, tiny features, and movements are clear.
Third Trimester (28–40 weeks)
- Growth Scan (as needed): If your provider has concerns about baby’s size, fluid levels, or positioning, additional 2D scans may be scheduled.
- Elective Follow-Up (30–32 weeks): Capture late-term expressions and bonding moments before baby becomes too snug. Avoid elective scans after 34 weeks due to limited fluid and space.
Balancing Health, Budget & Bonding
- Follow Your Provider’s Plan: Always attend medically recommended scans first—these ensure fetal health and safety.
- Plan Elective Visits Wisely: Two elective sessions (one in the late second trimester, one early third) maximize keepsake value without overspending.
- Insurance vs. Out-of-Pocket: Diagnostic scans are usually covered; elective packages at Baby Dimensions offer clear, upfront pricing so you can budget accordingly.
Tips for Crystal-Clear Keepsake Images
- Hydrate Early: Drink 4–6 bottles of water per day at least three days before your session.
- Juice Boost: Enjoy a bottle of apple or grape juice 10 minutes before to encourage gentle baby movement.
- Comfort First: Wear loose, two-piece clothing so you can easily uncover your belly.
Local Scheduling & Accessibility
At Baby Dimensions in Newnan, GA, we serve families from Peachtree City, LaGrange, Sharpsburg, and Carrollton. Our flexible weekday and weekend hours make it easy to fit elective scans into your busy pregnancy calendar.
- Book Early Online: Secure your preferred date and time via our website.
- Confirm with Your Provider: Let your OB/GYN know you’ve scheduled keepsake scans to coordinate care.
- Plan Around Medical Visits: Combine diagnostic and elective appointments on the same day to save trips.
Ready to Schedule Your Next Ultrasound?
Get the perfect blend of medical safety and unforgettable keepsake imagery with Baby Dimensions.
📞 Call (770) 502-0225
💻 Book Your Session Online
Join families in Newnan, Peachtree City, LaGrange, and beyond—because every scan counts, and every moment matters. 🌟
