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SANFI Diagnostics

Pregnancy scans · 26–32 weeks

3D/4D Scan with Wellbeing Check

The 3D/4D session and a full wellbeing assessment in one forty-five minute appointment: the pictures you want, and a consultant-reported check on how the baby is doing. The best of both, for people who want reassurance as well as a keepsake.

Illustration of an ultrasound scan view with a heartbeat at its centre

Performed and reported by accredited clinicians.

When
26–32 weeks
Duration
45 minutes
Price
€180, report included

Before you book

If you have noticed your baby moving less than usual, do not book a scan. Contact your maternity unit straight away, at any hour. Reduced movements need to be assessed the same day by your maternity team.

About this scan

What this scan involves

This appointment combines two things we do separately: the 3D/4D imaging session, and the wellbeing scan. The wellbeing part comes first, so that the clinical assessment is done carefully before the session turns to the pictures.

The wellbeing check

The sonographer confirms the heartbeat and its rhythm, watches the baby's movements, measures the fluid around the baby, records the position of the placenta and uses Doppler to measure blood flow through the umbilical cord. Each of these is reported against the expected range for your stage, in a written report by a consultant radiologist.

The 3D/4D session

With the assessment done, the sonographer finds the baby's face and switches to 3D, then to live 4D video. You watch on screen, and printed images come home with you. As with the standalone 3D/4D scan, the pictures depend on the baby's position and the fluid in front of the face; if they cannot be obtained, we offer a repeat imaging session at no additional charge.

Why book both together

One appointment, one visit, and a written clinical report alongside the keepsake images. For many people at twenty-six to thirty-two weeks it answers both questions at once: how is the baby doing, and what do they look like.

When to have it

The best time for this scan

Ideal timing: Twenty-seven to thirty weeks.

  1. 26 to 32 weeks

    The window in which 3D images are clearest. The wellbeing assessment is informative throughout this period.

  2. After 32 weeks

    The wellbeing check remains valuable, but clear 3D views of the face become harder as the baby runs out of room. Consider the Wellbeing Scan on its own.

What we check

Looked at during the scan

  • The heartbeat and its rhythm
  • The baby's movements, breathing movements and tone
  • The amount of fluid around the baby
  • The position of the placenta
  • Blood flow through the umbilical cord, by Doppler
  • How the baby is lying
  • Surface images of the face, hands and feet in 3D, and live 4D video

What's included

€180, nothing added at reception

  • A forty-five minute appointment with an accredited sonographer or consultant
  • A written wellbeing report by a consultant radiologist
  • Live 4D video on screen during the session
  • Printed 3D images to take home
  • A repeat imaging session at no additional charge if the baby will not cooperate

The price you are quoted is the price you pay. No separate reporting fee, no consultation surcharge.

Why people book it

You might choose this scan if

  • You want reassurance about the baby's wellbeing as well as the pictures
  • A previous pregnancy was difficult and you would like a clinical check alongside the keepsake
  • One appointment rather than two, with a written report
  • To share the experience with family while also getting a clinical assessment

What to expect

Before, during and after

1

Before your scan

No preparation is needed, but drink plenty of water in the two days beforehand for clearer 3D images. Bring your maternity notes and any earlier scan reports.

2

During the scan

The wellbeing assessment comes first and takes about half the appointment; the Doppler makes a whooshing sound when the cord is found, which is normal. The session then turns to 3D and 4D imaging of the face. If the baby is facing away you may be asked to walk around or change position. Allow forty-five minutes.

3

After your scan

The wellbeing findings are explained on the day and you leave with printed images. The written consultant report follows, typically within three working days, and is sent to your maternity unit or GP with your consent. Anything urgent is telephoned through the same day.

How to prepare

As for the 3D/4D scan. Drinking plenty of water in the two days beforehand improves image quality.

Book your 3D/4D Scan with Wellbeing Check

€180 including the consultant report, 45 minutes. Choose a time online, or send an enquiry and we will call you back, usually within one working day. If you need to reschedule, please let us know as early as you can.

Questions

Frequently asked

I think the baby is moving less. Should I book this?

No. Reduced movements need same-day assessment by your maternity unit, whatever the time of day or night. Please contact them directly.

What if the 3D pictures do not work out?

The wellbeing assessment stands on its own and is reported regardless. If the baby will not show their face, we offer a repeat imaging session at no additional charge.

Does this include growth measurements?

The wellbeing check focuses on how the baby is doing rather than size. If you would also like the baby measured and weighed, tell us when booking and we will advise.

Can I bring the family?

Yes. Let us know when you book how many are coming. We ask that visitors give the sonographer quiet during the wellbeing assessment, and then enjoy the pictures.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book this scan yourself.