The elective ultrasound and an original pregnancy gift

During your pregnancy, you watch your belly grow and sometimes feel your baby move — but the only way to actually see your baby is through an ultrasound. In a standard pregnancy, you typically have just two: the dating scan around 12 weeks and the anatomy scan at 20 weeks. If you’d like a closer look at your little one in between, an elective ultrasound is a wonderful option. But what exactly is an elective ultrasound? And what other original pregnancy gifts are out there? Read on to find out.

What is an elective ultrasound?

An elective ultrasound is done purely for enjoyment — not for medical reasons. There’s no active screening for abnormalities; it’s simply a chance to see your baby on screen. Afterward, you can take home photos or a short video as a keepsake. Unlike medical scans, you’re welcome to bring family and friends along, so your loved ones can meet your baby before they’re even born.

Why get an elective ultrasound?

Many parents opt for an elective ultrasound to find out the sex of their baby. Since standard care offers only two scans, it’s natural to want another peek in between. Elective ultrasounds are also a popular pregnancy gift — a meaningful experience to give an expectant mom.

When to get an elective ultrasound?

Most elective ultrasounds are done between weeks 16 and 30 of pregnancy. Scans between weeks 16 and 20 are often chosen for gender reveal purposes. The best time for a 3D or 4D ultrasound is generally between weeks 24 and 30. After week 30, it’s still possible, but visibility depends on your baby’s position, the location of the placenta, and the amount of amniotic fluid. If your baby has fully dropped into the birth position, an elective ultrasound may no longer be possible.

Types of elective ultrasounds

You can choose from several types of ultrasounds: 2D, 3D, or 4D. Here’s what sets them apart:

2D ultrasound

A 2D ultrasound shows your baby in moving black-and-white images — a cross-section of your little one. This is the standard format used for the dating scan and anatomy scan.

3D ultrasoundA 3D ultrasound creates still, color images with depth, built up from multiple 2D images. The result is a detailed, lifelike view of your baby’s features. You’ll typically go home with printed photos.

4D ultrasound

A 4D ultrasound is like a 3D scan in motion — you see your baby moving in real time, smiling, yawning, or stretching. Like the 3D scan, you’ll usually receive photos or a video to take home.

Where can you get an elective ultrasound?

Elective ultrasounds have grown in popularity, so there are plenty of places to go. Specialized clinics are the most common option, but many midwifery practices and hospitals now offer them as well.

Finding out the sex

If you’re eager to know whether you’re having a boy or a girl, an elective ultrasound can give you the answer. The sex is sometimes visible as early as 15 weeks, though 17 weeks is more reliable. While the anatomy scan at 20 weeks often includes a look at the sex, the sonographer isn’t obligated to share that information.

Is an elective ultrasound safe?

Yes. There are no known risks to you or your baby. Ultrasound equipment must meet strict safety standards, so both mother and baby are fully protected.

How much does an elective ultrasound cost?

Prices vary depending on the type of scan (2D, 3D, or 4D), where you go, and what’s included in terms of photos or video. A basic 2D scan with black-and-white photos can start around $40, while a full-color 4D scan typically costs around $100 or more. Since elective ultrasounds aren’t medically necessary, they’re not covered by basic health insurance — though some supplemental plans may offer partial reimbursement.

An original pregnancy gift from le Bump

Looking for a truly original pregnancy gift for a friend or family member who’s expecting — something beyond the usual elective ultrasound? Give her a gift voucher for a one-of-a-kind pregnancy sculpture from le Bump. Pregnancy is one of life’s most beautiful experiences, and what better way to hold onto that memory than with a tangible keepsake? Using safe 3D photography, we capture the pregnant body and transform it into a stunning pregnancy sculpture. Choose from a range of materials and finishes to make it completely personal.

How it works

Creating a pregnancy sculpture is a straightforward process:

• A photography session at our studio
• Craftsmanship meets technology
• Your sculpture delivered to your door

This original pregnancy gift preserves a personal memory forever — and every step is a shared experience, from choosing the pose to holding the finished piece in your hands. Browse our collection for inspiration, or get in touch if you’d like to give this unique 3D sculpture as a pregnancy gift. We’d love to help.