FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Our studio is warm, welcoming and comfy allowing you to relax. When we begin your experience we apply a small amount of gel to your stomach, then a trained staff member will gently move the probe over the same area. Bub will make his/her appearance on a screen or monitor, which will allow you to view your baby in the womb.
Please note you might not be able see anything straight away, especially if you're in the first trimester. The ultrasound probe will be moved around until your baby is in the correct position to be seen. Images will be captured and you will be able to enjoy your special bonding.
IS THIS TYPE OF ULTRASOUND SAFE FOR MY BABY?
Ultrasounds are non-invasive, completely safe and are a painless procedure.
If you have any concerns, we recommend you consult with your GP, obstetrician, or other independent health professions, to address concerns before booking a session with us.
IS THIS A MEDICAL SCAN?
No, our scans are elective and are a relaxing experience for you to bond with your bub, and to share with your family and friends. They are used for photography imaging purposes only.
The Bub Society recommend that you’ve had your most up to date medical scan, before attending your session with us. We cannot provide any medical advice, answer medical questions or diagnosis in any way. If you have any concerns in regards to your pregnancy, please consult your GP or health profession.
Our scans do not replace your 12-week nuchal translucency dating scan or any other medical scans that may be required. No doctor's referral required.
Please note: this service is not a Medicare diagnostic medical imaging procedure. Rebates from Medicare or private health funds are not available.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2D/3D/4D ULTRASOUNDS?
2D ultrasounds have been around for many years. They provide basic two-dimensional, black and white images of your baby.
3D ultrasound is an advanced method, it can show more detailed pictures of your baby’s face, eyes, nose, mouth, etc. These pictures are golden/orange colour.
4D ultrasound provides a moving three-dimensional image of bub in the womb. During a 4D ultrasound, we may be able to capture your baby yawning, sucking their thumb, or even waving a little hello.
WILL YOU BE ABLE TO TELL THE GENDER OF MY BABY?
By scanning, we are able to determine bub’s gender from around the 17 week mark. If baby is not in a good position we will know straight away. We will try our hardest to get bub into a better position.
For fuller ladies we suggest coming in around 17-19 weeks.
We do offer SneakPeek Early Gender DNA Test, where you can find out your baby’s gender as earlier as 7 weeks. Clinically proven to be 99.9% accuracy!
HOW DOES SNEAKPEEK WORK?
SneakPeek have simplified the DNA test methodology to only look for a single marker: Y chromosomes. If male Y chromosomes are found in mum’s blood, then we know baby is male. If no Y chromosomes are detected, bub is female. Because we were only looking for one thing, we could use a very small sample of mum’s blood that could be taken from the comfort of home, making it easy and convenient.
WHAT SHOULD I DO PRIOR TO MY APPOINTMENT?
Please complete our online waiver form prior to your appointment. If this is not possible, please arrive 10 minutes beforehand to fill out the form.
In the 24 hours lead up to your appointment, ensure you stay hydrated. A well hydrated mama is crucial for a successful scan. Empty your bladder 90 minutes before exam time, then drink 1-1.5 litres of water 30 minutes prior to your exam time. Being hydrated means we will get better images of bub.
AM I ALLOWED TO BRING OTHERS ON THE DAY?
Yes, of course. As we are an intimate studio, we are able to accommodate up to 2-3 additional family members. Children under age 12 must be supervised by an additional adult.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK A 3D/4D ULTRASOUND?
The Bub Society believe the best time for detailed facial scans is between 27-32 weeks. We are able to scan on either side of these times, but please bear in mind during the first trimester, a baby’s features are not distinct. We are however able to capture whole body movement, in real time. As for the last trimester it can be a bit tricky to scan as they have grown and ready to join you earthside.
For fuller figured ladies we do recommend visiting us from 30 weeks onwards, so we can capture a clearer image.
IS THERE AN ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR MULTIPLES?
There is a $39 surcharge for twins and triplets on our bub packages. This allows us extra time to scan and view each baby.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE AN ANTERIOR PLACENTA? AND WHAT IF I DO?
Anterior placentas are not uncommon, they also do not pose any risk to bub or you. During an appointment with your midwife or doctor, they will usually tell you or write it in your book.
Due to the placement of the placenta, it can sometimes block bub’s beautiful face. If baby’s face is not against the placenta we can get in there and capture some shots.
We do recommend coming between 28 – 32 weeks.
ARE YOU ABLE TO GUARANTEE PHOTOS AND WHAT IF WE ARE UNABLE TO GET ANY ON THE DAY?
On the day we cannot guarantee that we will be able to capture photos, as there are many different factors that are out of our control, such as the positioning of baby, movement, the location of their arms and legs, hand or cord near their face, placement of the placenta, body mass of the mother and other factors to take into consideration.
We will however will try our absolute best to capture the best possible images in your session.
If you have had a previous scan/s and bub has been a little shy, we recommend choosing one of our premium package which allows a longer time for scanning.
If bub’s face is completely hidden throughout your session, a reschedule appointment will be offered (gestation dependent).
WHAT IF THE TECHNICIAN SUSPECTS AN ANOMALY?
We do not offer a medical diagnostic ultrasound, however if anything untoward is seen during your scan, our staff member will direct you to the nearest tertiary obstetric centre or hospital for a medical assessment. We can NOT give any medical advice or diagnosis.
DO YOU OFFER GIFT VOUCHERS?
Yes, we do. These are a perfect gift for an expecting mama. All our packages are available for purchase. They are beautifully presented and will leave a cherished memory (must be redeemed within 12 months of purchase.)
WHAT IS YOUR REFUND/CANCELLATION POLICY?
We understand that unexpected things pop up, we please ask for a minimum of 48 hours to cancel or reschedule your booking.
Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds, but packages are available for rebooking or transferable to another mama (must be redeemed within 12 months of purchase).
WHAT ULTRASOUND MACHINE DO YOU USE?
We proudly utilise the GE Voluson E8 ultrasound machine to provide exceptional imaging. Our commitment to excellence is evident through our use of this high-end, hospital-grade ultrasound system that is trusted by doctors worldwide. We believe in offering nothing but the best, and that's why we rely on the Voluson E8's advanced features and cutting-edge technology to ensure crystal-clear image quality. The Voluson E8 is an indispensable tool that helps us set the standard for an unforgettable experience.