Frequently
Asked
Questions

An ultrasound exam is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to scan a woman’s abdomen and pelvic cavity, creating a picture (sonogram) of the baby and placenta. At La Bella Belly, we perform 2D scans at any point after 12 weeks. We offer 3D/4D scans at any point after 25 weeks. Recommended time is between 28-32 weeks.

Most pregnant women find out their baby's sex (if they choose to know) usually between 16 and 20 weeks. This is when it is the most accurate. However, this does still depend on the baby's position. We offer a "Sneak Peek" ultrasound as early as 12 weeks, but cannot determine gender at that time. La Bella Belly guarantees the gender will be correct if the client is over 16 weeks pregnant with a birth certificate verification. We also promise not to "guess" when we find the results. We will tell you the results ONLY if we are 100% sure and always in good faith. If baby is not in the correct position, we will often have you come back for free once to try again.

We will take clients at any point after 25 weeks gestation. However, the recommended time is between 28-32 weeks, and no later than 37 weeks. Depending on several factors, after about 34 weeks the chances of getting clear images decreases over time. The bigger/older the baby, the higher the chances the picture will be blurry or baby will appear squished. It is best to come closer to 28 weeks and choose a package with a free redo option just in case! Remember, this does vary person to person.

Allow 15-40 minutes for your session depending on the package you requested. ACTUAL SCANNING TIME will be limited to a maximum of 30 minutes for 3D/4D sessions and 10 minutes for 2D sessions. This is to be determined by the individual Sonographer performing your scan and scanning time may vary from one client to the next. The time allotted also includes any editing needed, packaging pictures/products, and emailing images if needed.

2D ultrasound is the traditional method used for years. They provide flatter, two-dimensional, black and white images of your baby. 3D ultrasound is an advanced method which captures a true, three-dimensional image of your baby, often allowing the ability to see specific facial features and well-defined formation. The difference between 3D and 4D: We get this question A LOT! It's a little misleading, but 4D is just 3D in motion. The 4th dimension added is watching the movement live on our screens, or through a package that offers our Theia Stream video emailed to the client. 4D ultrasound is an actual moving three-dimensional image of your baby in utero. Actions such as yawning, turning and even subtle movements can be seen.

Yes! We have seating and television screens for eight people comfortably (more people can fit if you all smell good!) 😉

Research has shown that Ultrasounds do not have a negative impact on you or your baby. The machine only uses sound waves to produce the image you see on the screen. If you are worried about visiting us, please be sure to check with your OB/Midwife and ask any questions you might have.

We ask you for your physician, midwife, or clinic information to contact them prior to your appointment. We send them a fax letting them know you are coming for an ultrasound appointment. They have the choice to receive your limited diagnostic report from u, or not to. We do have a partnering Doctor that receives all reports and checks them for any abnormalities within the limited report we do during the exam.

At La Bella Belly your satisfaction is our number one priority. We do our best, for every client, to obtain the very best images possible. However, there are some factors, outside of our control, that affect image quality. This includes the position of the baby, tissue density, position of the placenta, and amniotic fluid levels. While some of these factors change often, others stay the same throughout your pregnancy and obtaining images may be difficult in some circumstances. Because there is no way of knowing what kind of pictures we will get before your session, we have two different options regarding redo sessions. ____Option 1: We will reschedule your appointment at the redo cost for your chosen package. You will need to pay for the full amount of the ultrasound today. We will reschedule your session to obtain at least one picture of the baby’s face. Redo costs $35 each unless free in your original package. The first rescheduled appointment must be done within two weeks of today’s date. Because of factors outside of our control, we cannot guarantee how many pictures we will ultimately get, or the quality of the pictures. Our Sonographers will use appropriate approved procedures to try and get the baby to move. We will not be able to offer any refunds if you choose to reschedule your appointment. Option 2 will not be available at a later date. ____Option 2: Pay only the session fee. (Partial refund/discount if you DO NOT want to try again at this time) You will pay a session fee of $70 for 2D ultrasound or $99 for 3D/4D today to cover the limited diagnostic services and the appointment time that was scheduled for you. We will not reschedule your appointment. You will NOT receive pictures, videos, and/or 8K images for today. You will be charged for any product(s) that you keep in addition to the session fee. If you decide that you would like to try again, you will have to purchase another package, but you will still qualify for the subsequent package.

Yes! You have a few options. The best is to add the streaming package:

After introductions, we will complete the client intake process. Generally, this requires 15 minutes and you are not charged for this time. We want to know if you have any medical conditions to consider and for you to be comfortable with the entire massage process. Please note that the appointment time purchased is the entire time that you will be touched by your therapist, not simply the time required to prep.

You can wear whatever is comfortable. We are trained to preserve your modesty throughout your massage. You may be completely undressed under the massage covers.

Of course! We strive to have a variety of musical styles or can even turn the music completely off!

Most massages will include the base of the scull, the neck, and the scalp; however, we discuss focus areas prior to each massage to meet your specific expectations. This question is usually asked by those who either do not want their hair "messed up" or by those who do want a head massage (it feels awesome!); therefore, let us know what camp you are in prior to your massage.

While we focus on service, we do offer a few products as well. Don't worry, we are not going to hound you to buy something. We only share what we really believe in for moms. We do offer birthing gowns, sinch wraps (helps you begin recovery in the third trimester to get back to pre-baby body), and mommy/baby safe skin care products for stretch mark prevention/recovery.