Ultrasound has been used for many years, and there is currently no known evidence that obstetric ultrasound scans (including 4D scans) are harmful to mother and baby (Obstetric ultrasound, biological effects and safety (no 160, June 2005) SOGC clinical practice guidelines from JOGC). Despite this, we take the safety of you and your baby very seriously, adopting the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle by maintaining our equipment settings within the recommended levels, and keeping the amount of time your baby is exposed to a limit. This is particularly applicable in early pregnancy, therefore we have a shorter allocated scan time for this gestation and we do not use the Doppler to auscultate the early fetal heart during these scans. We also follow BMUS (British Medical Ultrasound Society) guidelines for the safe use of diagnostic ultrasound equipment and we regularly update our procedures.

For further peace of mind Miracle View uses the most advanced, modern equipment, which is regularly serviced and maintained. Both Miracle View and Enigma Healthcare, the provider of our clinic premises are registered with The Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is an independent regulator who inspects and ensures health and social care services in England provide safe, effective, compassionate, high quality care. You can be assured that our midwife sonographers are fully qualified and experienced, that our working practices are safe and fit for purpose, and that we provide a service of exceptional quality.

You may find the following links helpful in making an informed decision whether to opt for additional private scans:

• NHS Fetal Anomaly Screening Programme https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/screening-tests-for-you-and-your-baby

• EFSUMB – European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology https://efsumb.org/

• https://www.bmus.org/for-patients/what-to-expect-from-different-types-of-ultrasound-examination/obstetric-pregnancy/

• https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ultrasound-and-infrasound-health-effects

• https://www.cqc.org.uk/help-advice/help-choosing-care-services/choosing-baby-scanning-service

2D scanning is the standard black and white imaging commonly used in hospitals during routine diagnostic scans. Compared to the flat 2D image, 3D scans include more advanced imaging software and volume samples to create a three-dimensional image of your baby’s face rather than just the outline. 4D refers to the real-time movement or the 4th dimension of the 3D scan, where you are able to watch your baby move, yawn, suck their thumb and sometimes even smile, all happening in real time.

Ultrasound with 3D/4D imaging have been around for years, but GE’s HD live uses the most recent advancement in ultrasound technology that not only provides both 3D and 4D imaging, but utilises a combination of advanced skin illuminating and shadowing techniques of your baby to capture even clearer, sharper images that are more defined and have better resolution.

In 3D/4D/HD scanning, exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. All types of ultrasound utilise sound waves to look inside the body. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image. Therefore 3D/4D/HD ultrasound will be similar to a conventional 2D scan in terms of exposure.

HD live scanning is the best opportunity to really see and bond with your baby before it is born. You’ll see baby moving around your womb, giving you a miracle view of your baby’s personality as well as their face.

Yes.  It is essential to keep your NHS ultrasound appointments in addition to any scans you choose to book with Miracle View.

At Miracle View, your scan is self-elective and strictly non-diagnostic, for the production of keepsake souvenir images of your unborn baby.  We do not perform anatomy or anomaly scans. Our scans are intended for healthy pregnant women who have no concerns regarding their pregnancy, and are not experiencing any abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding. However if we identify anything that we feel might warrant further assessment by your usual NHS pregnancy care provider, we will discuss this with you at your appointment. Be reassured, our fully qualified midwife sonographers are not only well adept in performing a wide range of pregnancy scans but also have vast knowledge and experience in sensitively supporting you with any concerns.  A report will also be completed, and the appropriate referral advice will be offered to arrange input by your GP, Midwife or Obstetrician.

Yes,  Chaperones are available for all of our scans. However, we request notification 72 hours prior to your appointment to ensure that this can be accommodated.  Without notice, a chaperone may not be accessible  and unfortunately your appointment may need to be rearranged to accommodate your request.

Even Miracles can take a little time…

We always endeavour to acquire optimal images.  Sometimes babies are shy and can look away from us. In this instance, we will try a number of techniques that you feel comfortable with in attempt to get your baby into an optimal position.  We may suggest you for go a short walk and encourage to you to drink something cold/fizzy or eat a small snack.  If your little one remains shy despite our best efforts on the first consultation, we will book a further scan free of charge.

Absolutely, we are very experienced in caring for twin/multiple pregnancies and frequently perform scans on expectant mums who are carrying more than one baby.  We recommend that 4D twin scans are carried out between 22-26 weeks gestation.  Any later, they may get too snug and cuddle up to each other which can affect the quality of the images. Twin scans also take longer, therefore there will be a surcharge of £20 per scan for twins and we would appreciate you dropping us a message when you book to ensure we have set aside adequate time for the scan.