FAQ
Do I still need to visit the NHS if I get a scanning report from First View Imaging Ltd?
Yes. First View Imaging Ltd is a private scanning clinic which works alongside the NHS. What stage during pregnancy can I get a 4D scan?
The best time for a 4D scan is between 26 to 32 weeks. The baby at this stage is big but still has enough room to move around. Is there anything I can do to improve my 3D/4D images of baby?
3D/4D scans rely on several factors, including: size and position of baby, amount of fluid around the baby and/or excess maternal abdominal fat. If the baby is not in an ideal position, we will ask you to take a short walk or move around to encourage the baby to move. If baby's position does not improve, a further appointment will be offered at no extra cost. What happens if you are unable to get the 3D/4D images of the baby?
If the baby does not co-operate on the day of the scan, after a minimum of 2 attempts, you will be invited back at no extra cost. Patients are advised that they will be charged in full for the scan on the first visit, if after the second visit no suitable 4D images are obtained a partial refund would be given. Who will perform the scan?
All of our fully qualified Sonographers are accredited by the Fetal Medicine Foundation and are registered by the Health Professionals Council. All are also currently working within the NHS. How many people can accompany me to my appointment?
At First View Imaging LTD we recognise the importance of the unique bonding experience, especially with 3D/4D. We are happy for family and friends to attend, however due to limitations in space and seating, we are able to accommodate up to 4 adults plus children. Do I need to drink water for a 3D/4D scan?
You are not required to have a full bladder however you are required to have some fluid so as to ensure that baby is in a good position. What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Please bring your pregnancy notes and contact details of your health professional –GP/midwife. Will you advise me of any abnormalities?
The 3D/4D scan is not a diagnostic procedure and does not replace any of your NHS scans. During your appointment a growth scan is performed on the baby. We recommend you attend your 20 week anomaly scan prior to your 3D/4D scan. In an event of any abnormality being detected, we will discuss this with you and, with your permission with your health practitioner. What is the difference between 3D/4D and 2D ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to detect what is going on within the body, comprising primarily of a transducer, monitor and computer. The transducer emits sound into the body at different wavelengths, which is then read and interpreted by the computer, ultimately creating an image on the monitor. 2D ultrasound simply provides a 2-dimensional image in black and white, allowing views of internal organs, including those of the developing fetus. 3D/4D ultrasound provides a 3 or 4-dimensional image in colour (sepia) of only the surface. Any movement of the fetus is described as the 4-dimensional image and provides the real time moving image. What if I am unsure of my LMP dates?
We offer early pregnancy scans from 6 weeks. A gestation sac should be seen but a heartbeat may not always be guaranteed, especially if you are very early. Early dating is performed ideally from 7 weeks and at this point we should be able to see a fetus and a heartbeat. Do I need to drink water before my scan appointment?
We advise drinking 1 litre of water at least 1 hr prior to the scan, enough for a full bladder. Does an internal scan always need to be carried out?
Not always it is dependent on each individual examination. This will be discussed and explained in full with you by the Sonographer before proceeding with an internal examination. I have medical insurance. Can I claim for my scan?
First View is paid directly by the patient . Any claims that a re made are between the insurance company and the patient. We are able to provide you with a receipt for a claim or sign/ stamp the claim form. What happens if my Nuchal Translucency results show that I have a high risk?
You will be advised to discuss your results and options with your midwife. Further invasive testing will be offered either Chorionic Villous sampling or Amniocentesis to determine the certainty of your pregnancy being affected by Downs Syndrome. What happens if I am too late or too early for the Nuchal Translucency?
We would only charge you for a dating scan. If too early for the NT and you request a further scan for the NT, the NT scan charge would be applied on the second visit. What happens if the baby is not in a good position for the NT?
We will ask you to move around and send you for a walk. If after a number of attempts we are unsuccessful we will invite you back at no extra charge. When is the best time to determine the gender of the baby?
Although the gender of the baby can be determined from a minimum of 17 weeks we ideally prefer from 18 weeks where possible. Our sonographers will not disclose the sex of the baby unless they themselves are absolutely sure. Do I need a full bladder for a Gynaecological scan?
We ask for our patients to attend with a full bladder .This requires 1 litre of water to be drunk 1 hour before the appointment time. What is the preparation for an Abdominal scan?
We ask our patients to starve for 6 hours prior to the scan appointment time. However clear fluids can be drunk. No milk in tea or coffee or fizzy drinks.
