What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound works by bouncing sound waves, inaudible to the human ear, off the
developing fetus. Echoes from the waves are analyzed, and recorded by computer. Then,
they are transformed into video, or still pictures of your baby. Ultrasounds do not use
any radiation.

Are ultrasounds safe?

Yes, ultrasounds of any kind are safe. Ultrasound technology has been used for over 30
years. In fact, most young people walking around today have had an ultrasound
performed on them in the womb!  “High Risk” pregnancies sometimes receive an
ultrasound every week, further reinstating the fact that they are safe for mother and
unborn child.

But, we agree with the web links below, that ultrasounds should be done responsibly.  
That is why we have
certified ultrasound technicians on staff, most of whom also
work in doctor’s offices and hospitals, to perform our ultrasounds. All of our
technicians have been to school and internships. They are up-to-date with all rules and
guidelines concerning ultrasound application.  We also have on staff a
Registered
Nurse
, specializing in Pediatrics. As an added extra, we have a consulting physican,
should any need arise.  

Also, our equipment is the top-of-line, new technology. Our ultrasound machine is the
GE Voluson 730. It uses the same “power”, or “energy” levels that your doctor’s office
uses in 2D ultrasound technology.  

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, we do not take walk-ins. But, we are conveniently open on weekends and weekday
evenings!  We want this be a family event, so we try to provide hours where both mom
and dad, plus, the extended family can attend the session.

When is the best time to make an appointment?

We say the best time for an appointment differs depending on what parts of your baby
you’re trying to see!  Gender determination can be done once the pregnant mother
reaches 16 weeks.  If your goal is to get “body” images, your best time to make an
appointment would be between 20 and 30 weeks.  If your goal is to get “facial feature”
images, your best time for an appointment would be between 28 and 32 weeks.  These
are estimates, and should only be used as a guideline. Every pregnancy is different!

How should I prepare for an appointment?

Any pregnant mother knows to stay hydrated!  Hydration is very important to achieve
good ultrasound images. Drink lots of water the week leading up to your visit!

Who can come to my Peek-a-Belly session?

We would say our ultrasound room easily holds 4 to 5 people.  But, we have plenty of
standing room, and a
48” mounted flat screen! We just ask no more than 8 to 10
people, and to please tell your group to keep the noise level down to be courteous to
others in our boutique. So bring all who want to cherish these moments with you!

Are “great” images guaranteed?

Sadly, no, we can not guarantee great images for your visit. Many factors determine
how good an appointment will be…including hydration of the mother, amount of
amniotic fluid, movement and position of the baby, and the amount of tissue the
ultrasound waves have to travel through.  However, we strive to have every family
leave happy!  

Does a visit to Peek-a-Belly replace any prenatal care?

No way! In fact, you have to be under prenatal care by a physican to receive a Peek-a-
Belly session.



Web Links discussing the safety of ultrasounds...

www.ob-ultrasound.net

www.ob-ultrasound.net/studies.html

www.webmd.com/baby/fetal-ultrasound

http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/ultrasound

http://www.revolutionhealth.com/healthy-living/pregnancy/forty-weeks/first-
trimester/ultrasound-safety

www.radiologyinfo.org/en/ info.cfm?pg=obstetricus&bhcp=

http://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20041202/multiple-pregnancy-ultrasounds-safe-for-
child

http://health.dailynewscentral.com/content/view/188/62
www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/ pittsburgh/ultrasound.htm

http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1167.asp

www.babycenter.com/0_all-about-ultrasounds_3

www.ardms.org/newswire/12062004/ 12062004.htm

answers.yahoo.com/question/ index?qid=20061130134334AAWY0pl 29.bc

answers.yahoo.com/question/ index?qid=20061229155257AAmkSHd

www.pregnancy-calendars.net/forums/ topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8715

www.accesschs.org/women_children_at_bmh/ faqs.htm

http://www.americanpregnancy.org/prenataltesting/ultrasound.html

babycenter.ca/pregnancy/antenatalhealth/ scans/ultrasoundscansoverview

http://www.abc.net.au/science/news/health/HealthRepublish_1257089.htm

http://babyfit.sparkpeople.com/archive_posts.asp?imboard=38&imParent=422959

http://www.pregnancytip.com/2006/08/10/babies/how-safe-is-ultrasound/
2230 Towne Lake Parkway,Woodstock,Ga 30189 * 770-924-2024* info@peekabelly.com
Disclaimer: All 3D and 4D ultrasound success is done by chance.  All pictures are subject to many factors including
hydration, amount of amniotic fluid, positioning of the baby, and amount of tissue the ultrasound waves have to
travel through.  All redo appointments are at owner's discretion.