3D or 4D Ultrasound in Nigeria: Which is Safe For You?

A pregnancy ultrasound uses sound waves to capture images of your growing child through different angles. These waves bounce back and thus produce the resulting image.

There are different types of ultrasounds ranging from 2D, 3D, 4D, and 5D. All these dimensions are somewhat similar to the pioneering 2D ultrasound.

The distinguishing feature is that the light is shown at different planes and angles. The equipment for image interpretation also differs from one another.

In Nigeria, the most popular type of pregnancy ultrasounds are 2D and 3D. However, 4D ultrasound is gradually becoming popular.

This article explains in detail the cost, differences between a 3D and 4D scan, and favourable facilities to get a 4D ultrasound test.

3D or 4D ultrasound: What are They?

A 3D ultrasound takes images of your baby from different angles and produces a black-and-white, somewhat realistic image of your baby.

A 4D ultrasound creates a more realistic real-time video of your baby. You can view your baby yawning, and smiling, and you can see his/her heartbeat too! It allows your doctor to observe if the baby’s parts are functioning properly.

When is The Best Time to Get an Ultrasound?

It depends on different factors. If you want to hear your baby’s heartbeat, you can get an ultrasound at 10 weeks.

If you want to check for the gender of your child, an ultrasound is essential from week 16.

Generally, the best time to get a 3D or 4D ultrasound is between 26 and 34 weeks.

At 26 weeks, your baby’s skin will be adequate to be captured in the image during the scan. The baby already has a substantial amount of body fat.

If you're pregnant with twins or more, it is best to get an ultrasound at 27 weeks. It'll help you get a clearer picture of your baby.

Differences Between a 3D and 4D Ultrasound

Both methods are non-invasive and completely safe. However, there are key differences between a 3D and 4D ultrasound. Some of these include:

A 4D ultrasound produces a clear, moving image with enough details for further observation while a 3D ultrasound produces a black-and-white (blurry) image.

A 4D ultrasound easily detects birth defects like cleft lips, and other fetal anomalies while a 3D ultrasound takes longer to detect such defects.

With a 4D ultrasound, you can view your baby’s external features and movements like yawning, smiling, and head shakes. A 3D ultrasound on the other hand doesn't offer such features.

How Much Does a 4D Ultrasound cost in Nigeria

For its unique benefits, it's more expensive than the conventional 3D ultrasound.

However, you can receive this service at a highly professional facility all at an affordable rate.

At Beacon Health, the 4D ultrasound scan goes for 10,000 naira only. Beacon Health is a leading diagnostic and laboratory center with branches all over Nigeria including Lagos, Akure, Ibadan, Osogbo, Ilorin, Uyo, Ogun, and Abuja.