How many ultrasound scans will I need during pregnancy?

A typical low-risk pregnancy includes: dating + viability scan (6-9 weeks), NT/early anomaly (11-14 weeks), anomaly scan (18-22 weeks), growth + Doppler scans (28, 32, 36 weeks). High-risk pregnancies may require additional fetal echo, cervical length, or Doppler monitoring.

What is the difference between 2D, 3D, and 4D ultrasound?

2D produces grey-scale anatomic images and is the standard diagnostic modality. 3D reconstructs volumes for surface views (face, spine, limb position). 4D is 3D in real-time motion. Diagnostic decisions are made on 2D + Doppler; 3D/4D add visualisation for specific surface or volume questions.

Is ultrasound safe for my baby?

Diagnostic ultrasound at clinical exposure levels has not been shown to cause harm to the fetus in decades of widespread use. ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles apply: exposure is kept as brief as clinically appropriate. Non-medical "souvenir" prolonged sessions are not recommended.

What is the NT scan for?

Nuchal translucency (NT) measurement between 11-14 weeks, combined with maternal age, free beta-hCG, PAPP-A, and optionally nasal bone, gives a personalised risk for trisomy 21, 18, 13 per FMF protocol. NIPT may be combined or used independently.

What if the scan finds a problem?

Findings are communicated clearly, with realistic prognosis based on current evidence. Where indicated we offer detailed counselling, second-opinion referral, fetal echocardiography, fetal MRI, genetic counselling, and structured multidisciplinary review. We do not impose decisions; we provide options.

Do I need a fetal echocardiogram?

Fetal echo (typically 20-24 weeks) is recommended for: maternal pregestational diabetes, family history of congenital heart disease, maternal autoimmune disease, suspected cardiac anomaly on anatomy scan, increased NT, or specific genetic syndromes. Routine fetal echo is not required in all pregnancies.

Can ultrasound determine the gender?

Gender determination is technically feasible from approximately 14-16 weeks. In India, prenatal sex determination is prohibited by law (PCPNDT Act 1994). All scans at our centre comply strictly with PCPNDT requirements and gender is not disclosed.

How accurate is Doppler in late pregnancy?

Umbilical artery Doppler, middle cerebral artery Doppler, ductus venosus, and uterine artery Doppler each provide specific physiologic information. They are accurate when performed by trained operators using ISUOG-aligned technique and interpreted in clinical context, not in isolation.

Advanced Fetal Medicine • Ahmedabad

Fetal Medicine & Advanced 3D/4D Ultrasonography

Expert fetal assessments with GE Voluson technology — performed by an ISUOG-trained specialist

From early pregnancy dating to complex fetal anomaly screening, Balaji Horizon’s dedicated fetal medicine department combines clinical precision with internationally certified scanning protocols and India’s most advanced obstetric ultrasound machines.

Book a Scan Appointment
Call +91 70460 02566

GE Voluson 3D/4D

ISUOG Protocols

3 Dedicated Machines

9 Scan Types

GE Voluson S10 Expert XD 3D 4D fetal medicine ultrasound Balaji Horizon Ahmedabad

What Is Fetal Medicine — and Why Does It Matter?

Fetal medicine is a subspecialty of obstetrics focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and clinical management of conditions affecting the developing baby. It goes significantly beyond a routine antenatal scan.

A fetal medicine assessment includes:

High-resolution 3D/4D structural survey of all fetal organ systems
Doppler blood flow assessment — umbilical, middle cerebral artery, ductus venosus
Growth biometry and estimated fetal weight
Placental evaluation and cervical length assessment
Detection of markers for chromosomal or genetic conditions
Dedicated cardiac assessment (fetal echocardiography)

At Balaji Horizon, all fetal scans follow ISUOG 2023 international guidelines and are performed on GE Voluson dedicated women’s health platforms.

HD Live Silhouette 3D fetal scan GE Voluson Ahmedabad

HD Live Silhouette — advanced fetal visualisation | GE Voluson technology

Led by an ISUOG-Trained Fetal Medicine Specialist

👨‍⚕️

Dr. Mayank Chaudhary

ISUOG-Trained Fetal Medicine Specialist & Sonologist
Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital, Ahmedabad

ISUOG International Training

Advanced Obstetric Ultrasonography

Fetal Anomaly Screening

GE Voluson Expert User

Integrated with Dr. Priyadatt Patel’s High-Risk OB Team

Dr. Mayank Chaudhary brings dedicated expertise in fetal medicine and advanced obstetric ultrasonography, trained to ISUOG international standards. He performs the complete spectrum of fetal assessments — from first trimester viability scans to detailed anomaly surveys, fetal echocardiography, and complex Doppler studies — exclusively on GE Voluson equipment.

His clinical work is directly integrated with Dr. Priyadatt Patel’s high-risk obstetrics practice, ensuring that scan findings translate immediately into clinical decisions when required.

GE Voluson Technology — Diagnostic Precision You Can Trust

Balaji Horizon operates three dedicated GE Voluson ultrasound systems across two locations — each selected specifically for women’s health and obstetric imaging. No general-purpose machines. No compromises.

📍 Science City, Ahmedabad

XDclear™ | Expert Series

Voluson S10 Expert XD

“Get Ahead. Stay Ahead.”

The Voluson S10 Expert XD is built for the most demanding clinical cases. Powered by GE’s proprietary Voluson Core Architecture, delivering exceptional 3D/4D imaging performance in all modes.

XDclear™ Probe Technology — exceptional clarity at depth
RadiantFlow™ — advanced colour Doppler visualisation
SonoCNS™ — AI-powered fetal brain biometry
OmniView™ — volume rendering from any plane

Best for: Complex anomaly scans · Fetal brain · Cardiac Doppler · High-risk follow-up

📍 Science City, Ahmedabad

AI Platform | SWIFT Series

Voluson SWIFT Plus

“Welcome to a remarkably different ultrasound experience.”

The Voluson SWIFT Plus is a technologically advanced obstetric platform built for the future of women’s health imaging. AI-driven automation streamlines every aspect of the scanning workflow.

Intuitive touchscreen — large display, familiar interaction
SonoLyst™ + fetalHS™ — AI-assisted fetal assessment
Flow Profiles™ — advanced Doppler waveform analysis
Full 3D/4D OB/GYN imaging capability

Best for: Routine anomaly scans · Growth biometry · 3D/4D wellbeing · High-volume scanning

📍 AEC Naranpura, Ahmedabad

Performance Series | Dedicated OB/GYN

Voluson P6

Dedicated women’s health imaging

The GE Voluson P6 is a dedicated women’s health ultrasound system, purpose-built for OB/GYN imaging. Reliable 3D/4D scanning for the full range of obstetric assessments at our Naranpura clinical location.

Dedicated OB/GYN platform — not a general scanner
3D/4D volume imaging capability
Colour Doppler and spectral Doppler
Full obstetric biometry measurement package

Best for: First trimester scans · NT measurements · Growth follow-up · Naranpura location

Our Complete Scan Portfolio — 9 Specialised Fetal Scans

Every scan performed on GE Voluson equipment, following ISUOG 2023 international guidelines.

#	Scan Type	Gestational Age	What It Assesses	Learn More
1	Dating & Viability Scan	6–10 weeks	Confirms intrauterine pregnancy, fetal heartbeat, crown-rump length, gestational sac, rules out ectopic	View →
2	NT + First Trimester Screening	11–13+6 weeks	Nuchal translucency, Down syndrome risk markers, nasal bone, ductus venosus, combined screening	View →
3	Anomaly Scan (TIFFA)	18–22 weeks	Full structural survey — brain, heart, spine, limbs, kidneys, face, abdomen, placenta	View →
4	Fetal Echocardiography	24–28 weeks	Dedicated cardiac assessment — 4-chamber view, outflow tracts, great vessels, cardiac rhythm	View →
5	Growth Scan (Biometry)	28–40 weeks	Head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, estimated fetal weight, INTERGROWTH-21st charts	View →
6	Doppler Study	Any trimester	Umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, ductus venosus PI/RI — placental function and fetal well-being	View →
7	3D/4D Wellbeing Scan	26–32 weeks	HD Live fetal face, movement and behaviour assessment, bonding scan — GE AI features	View →
8	Placenta & AFI Assessment	Any trimester	Placental location, grade, low-lying placenta, placenta praevia, amniotic fluid index	View →
9	Cervical Length Scan	18–24 weeks	Transvaginal cervical length measurement, internal os assessment, short cervix / preterm risk	View →

All scans are reported by Dr. Mayank Chaudhary (ISUOG-trained). Reports generated same-session. Scan recommendations are based on your individual clinical history and are not generic packages.

Genetics & Prenatal Testing

NIPT (cell-free DNA), combined first trimester screening, soft markers assessment, and counselling for chromosomal conditions including Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome.

Learn More →

Invasive Procedures

Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) — performed under continuous ultrasound guidance for diagnostic confirmation of chromosomal or genetic conditions when indicated.

Learn More →

When to Book — Your Trimester-by-Trimester Scan Guide

Based on ISUOG 2023 guidelines and standard clinical practice. Scan timing varies by individual clinical need.

First Trimester (0–13+6 weeks)

6–10 wks — Dating & Viability Scan

11–13+6 wks — NT + First Trimester Screening

• Confirms pregnancy location
• Fetal heartbeat check
• Down syndrome risk assessment
• Ovarian cyst screening

Second Trimester (14–27+6 weeks)

18–22 wks — Anomaly Scan (TIFFA)

18–24 wks — Cervical Length (if indicated)

24–28 wks — Fetal Echocardiography

22–28 wks — Doppler (if high-risk)

• Complete structural survey
• Cardiac assessment
• Preterm risk assessment

Third Trimester (28–40 weeks)

28–36 wks — Growth Scan (serial)

26–32 wks — 3D/4D Wellbeing Scan

Any time — Doppler / AFI (if indicated)

36–40 wks — Presentation & AFI check

• Growth monitoring
• Placental function
• Presentation & delivery planning

Scan schedule is individualised based on your pregnancy risk profile. Not all scans are required in every pregnancy.

Advanced Fetal Imaging — GE Voluson Technology

HD Live Silhouette fetal scan GE Voluson Ahmedabad

HD Live Silhouette — 3D Fetal Visualisation

RadiantFlow Doppler imaging GE Voluson Balaji Horizon

RadiantFlow™ — Advanced Colour Doppler

Nuchal translucency NT scan first trimester GE Voluson

Nuchal Translucency — First Trimester Screening

HD Live 3D 4D fetal scan GE Voluson Balaji Horizon Ahmedabad

HD Live — 3D/4D Wellbeing Scan

Why Choose Balaji Horizon for Fetal Medicine?

🏆

Three Dedicated GE Voluson Machines

No general-purpose scanners. All three machines are GE Voluson — designed exclusively for women’s health imaging across both clinical locations.

🎓

ISUOG-Trained Specialist

Dr. Mayank Chaudhary is trained to ISUOG international standards — the globally recognised benchmark for obstetric and gynaecological ultrasonography.

🔬

Same-Session Reporting

Reports are generated and reviewed during your appointment — no waiting days for a report. Clinical findings are explained to you directly after the scan.

🤝

Integrated Clinical Team

Fetal medicine findings are directly integrated with Dr. Priyadatt Patel’s high-risk obstetrics team — ensuring scan findings immediately inform clinical management.

📍

Two Ahmedabad Locations

Science City Road (main hospital) and AEC Naranpura — giving you convenient access to advanced fetal scanning across Ahmedabad.

🛡️

Evidence-Based Protocols

Every scan follows ISUOG 2023 international guidelines and GE AI-assisted measurement protocols — not modified by commercial pressures or package-based scanning.

Frequently Asked Questions — Fetal Medicine

What is the difference between a routine scan and a fetal medicine scan?

A routine pregnancy scan checks basic parameters such as growth and heartbeat. A fetal medicine scan is a specialist-performed detailed assessment — covering structural anomaly screening, Doppler blood flow studies, and (where indicated) genetic risk markers. It is performed by a trained specialist, not a technician, and is reported with clinical context.

How many scans do I need during my pregnancy?

For a low-risk pregnancy, ISUOG guidelines recommend a minimum of three scans: a first trimester viability scan (6–10 weeks), an NT/combined screening scan (11–13+6 weeks), and a detailed anomaly scan (18–22 weeks). Third trimester growth scans are added based on clinical need. High-risk pregnancies require more frequent monitoring.

Is a 3D/4D scan safe for my baby?

Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound has been used safely in obstetric practice for decades. There is no credible evidence of harm from properly conducted obstetric ultrasound at recommended durations and frequencies.

When should I book my first pregnancy scan?

If you have a confirmed positive pregnancy test, we recommend a viability scan at 6–8 weeks to confirm the pregnancy is intrauterine, check the fetal heartbeat, and establish accurate dating. If you have had a previous miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or IVF treatment, an earlier scan at 6 weeks is particularly important.

Does fetal echocardiography replace the anomaly scan?

No. The anomaly scan (TIFFA) at 18–22 weeks includes a basic cardiac screen. Fetal echocardiography at 24–28 weeks is a dedicated, detailed cardiac assessment — indicated when there are risk factors such as a family history of congenital heart disease, maternal diabetes, or a suspected finding from the anomaly scan. Both scans serve different purposes.

What machines are used for fetal scans at Balaji Horizon?

All fetal scans at Balaji Horizon are performed on GE Voluson dedicated women’s health machines. At Science City we have the GE Voluson S10 Expert XD (with XDclear™ and RadiantFlow™ technology) and the GE Voluson SWIFT Plus (with AI-assisted assessment tools). At our AEC Naranpura location we use the GE Voluson P6 — a dedicated OB/GYN platform.

Can I get a 3D/4D scan for bonding purposes?

Yes. The 3D/4D Wellbeing Scan at 26–32 weeks is designed specifically for detailed fetal visualisation and bonding. It uses HD Live technology on the GE Voluson system. We include a brief clinical wellbeing assessment as part of this scan. Pure “entertainment scans” without any clinical assessment are not offered at Balaji Horizon.

Do you provide NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing)?

We counsel for and co-ordinate NIPT. NIPT involves a maternal blood draw for cell-free fetal DNA analysis — it is not a scan but a laboratory test. At Balaji Horizon, we integrate NIPT counselling with the NT scan at 11–13+6 weeks, so that risk assessment, counselling, and blood collection can occur at the same appointment if appropriate.

What is the Doppler scan and who needs it?

A Doppler study measures blood flow velocity in key fetal and uteroplacental vessels — principally the umbilical artery, the middle cerebral artery, and the ductus venosus. It is indicated in pregnancies with suspected growth restriction, hypertension, placental insufficiency, or post-dates monitoring. It provides critical information about fetal well-being and helps guide decisions about timing of delivery in fetal growth restriction.

Book Your Fetal Medicine Appointment

Scans performed by Dr. Mayank Chaudhary (ISUOG-trained), on GE Voluson technology, same-session reporting.

Book Appointment
📞 +91 70460 02566

📍 Science City Road: Satyamev Eminence, Near AUDA Tank, Ahmedabad 380060

📍 AEC Naranpura: Ahmedabad

⏰ Mon–Sat: 9am–6pm

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging • Ahmedabad

Fetal Medicine & Advanced 3D/4D Ultrasonography

Precision fetal surveillance from the first trimester through delivery. Balaji Horizon uses state-of-the-art 3D/4D ultrasound technology to ensure you and your baby are always in expert hands.

Book a Scan Appointment

15+

Years Experience

10,000+

Scans Performed

3D/4D

Advanced Technology

Scan Types Offered

What We Do

Your Window Into Your Baby's World

Fetal medicine is a subspecialty dedicated to monitoring fetal growth, detecting anomalies early, and managing high-risk pregnancies with precision. At Balaji Horizon, we combine advanced ultrasound technology — including 3D volumetric and real-time 4D imaging — with the clinical expertise of Dr. Priyadatt Patel to give you the most accurate picture of your baby's development at every stage.

Why 3D/4D Ultrasound Matters

Standard 2D ultrasound shows cross-sectional slices. 3D imaging reconstructs these into a three-dimensional volume — enabling clearer visualisation of facial features, limb anatomy, and structural anomalies. 4D adds real-time motion, allowing you to observe your baby's movements, expressions, and breathing patterns as they happen.

Clinical Significance

Beyond the emotional value, 3D/4D imaging has genuine clinical utility — it improves the detection of open neural tube defects, craniofacial anomalies, cardiac structural defects, and placental abnormalities. Early detection allows timely referral, specialist intervention, and informed parental counselling.

Our Services

Comprehensive Scan Portfolio

From early viability confirmation to detailed anomaly screening and fetal Doppler studies, we offer the full spectrum of obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound services.

Viability Scan

Performed at 6–10 weeks, confirms intrauterine pregnancy, fetal heart activity, gestational sac size, and accurate dating — critical for IVF and high-risk pregnancies.

NT Scan (11–14 Weeks)

Nuchal translucency measurement combined with maternal serum markers (combined first trimester screening) to assess chromosomal risk. ISUOG-guideline compliant technique.

Anomaly Scan (18–22 Weeks)

Systematic organ-by-organ evaluation of the fetal anatomy. Identifies structural malformations of the heart, brain, spine, kidneys, and limbs at the optimal imaging window.

Fetal Echocardiography

Detailed cardiac structure assessment for fetuses at elevated risk of congenital heart disease. Evaluates all four chambers, outflow tracts, great vessels, and cardiac rhythm.

Fetal Neurosonogram

In-depth evaluation of fetal brain anatomy — corpus callosum, cerebellum, posterior fossa, and ventricular system. Recommended when standard anomaly scan findings are uncertain.

Fetal Doppler

Umbilical and middle cerebral artery Doppler to assess uteroplacental blood flow. Essential in IUGR, pre-eclampsia, and post-dates monitoring to guide timing of delivery.

Growth Scan

Serial biometry (BPD, HC, AC, FL) to track fetal growth trajectory. Identifies IUGR, macrosomia, and abnormal growth patterns requiring closer surveillance or intervention.

Gynaecological / Pelvic Scan

Uterine and ovarian evaluation for fibroids, cysts, endometriosis mapping, and pelvic pathology. Both transabdominal and transvaginal approaches available.

Infertility Baseline Scan

Antral follicle count (AFC), uterine cavity assessment, and endometrial evaluation — a standard part of the initial fertility workup before IVF or ovulation induction.

Scan Schedule

Trimester-Specific Surveillance

Different scans are optimally performed at different gestational windows. Here is a structured overview of what to expect — and when.

First Trimester

6 – 13 Weeks

Viability confirmation (6–10 weeks)
Dating scan + crown-rump length
NT scan at 11–14 weeks
Combined first trimester screening
Early fetal anatomy review

Second Trimester

18 – 24 Weeks

Level II anomaly scan (18–22 wks)
Fetal echocardiography if indicated
Fetal neurosonogram if indicated
Cervical length assessment
3D/4D evaluation of anatomy

Third Trimester

28 – 40 Weeks

Serial growth scans (28, 32, 36 wks)
Fetal Doppler surveillance
Placenta & liquor assessment
Presentation scan at 36+ weeks
Biophysical profile if required

Why Balaji Horizon

Precision. Expertise. Compassionate Care.

Not every ultrasound unit offers the same level of scrutiny. The quality of fetal imaging depends as much on the operator's skill as on the machine. At Balaji Horizon, scans are performed and interpreted by Dr. Priyadatt Patel — an ISUOG-trained fetal medicine specialist.

✓

ISUOG-Trained Sonologist

Scans follow International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology protocols — systematic, documented, and reproducible.

✓

State-of-the-Art Equipment

High-end ultrasound systems with live 3D/4D imaging, spatial compound imaging, and SonoAVC technology for follicle counting.

✓

Integrated Clinical Context

Findings are interpreted in the context of your complete clinical history — not in isolation. Every report comes with a counselling discussion.

✓

Same-Day Reporting

Detailed written reports issued on the day of the scan, with immediate explanation of findings by the performing clinician.

✓

High-Risk Pregnancy Expertise

Particular experience in scanning IVF pregnancies, multiple gestations, prior anomaly history, and maternal medical conditions.

✓

Comfortable, Private Environment

Dedicated ultrasound suites with 3D/4D screen viewing for parents, warm gel, and unhurried appointments.

Book Your Scan at Balaji Horizon

Whether it is your first viability scan or a detailed anomaly assessment, our team is ready to provide expert, reassuring care.

Schedule an Appointment Call +91 97234 31544

What happens at first consultation

Second opinion welcome

Fetal Medicine & Advanced 3D/4D Ultrasonography

What Is Fetal Medicine — and Why Does It Matter?

Led by an ISUOG-Trained Fetal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mayank Chaudhary

GE Voluson Technology — Diagnostic Precision You Can Trust

Voluson S10 Expert XD

Voluson SWIFT Plus

Voluson P6

Our Complete Scan Portfolio — 9 Specialised Fetal Scans

Genetics & Prenatal Testing

Invasive Procedures

When to Book — Your Trimester-by-Trimester Scan Guide

Advanced Fetal Imaging — GE Voluson Technology

Why Choose Balaji Horizon for Fetal Medicine?

Frequently Asked Questions — Fetal Medicine

Book Your Fetal Medicine Appointment

Topics covered in the fetal medicine programme

Pregnancy ultrasound schedule

6-9 weeks · dating + viability

11-14 weeks · NT + early anomaly + first trimester screening

18-22 weeks · detailed anomaly scan

28-32 weeks · growth + Doppler

36 weeks · pre-delivery review

Common Fetal Medicine Questions

Short, evidence-based guides reviewed by Dr. Priyadatt Patel

Fetal medicine evidence base

Other prenatal scans

Dating & Viability Scan

Growth Scan

Placenta & AFI Scan

Cervical Length Scan

From first consultation to long-term care

Consultation

Investigation

Personalised plan

Treatment

Long-term follow-up

Recommended antenatal scan schedule

Request a Callback

Dr. Priyadatt Patel

Fetal Medicine & Advanced 3D/4D Ultrasonography

Your Window Into Your Baby's World

Why 3D/4D Ultrasound Matters

Clinical Significance

Comprehensive Scan Portfolio

Viability Scan

NT Scan (11–14 Weeks)

Anomaly Scan (18–22 Weeks)

Fetal Echocardiography

Fetal Neurosonogram

Fetal Doppler

Growth Scan

Gynaecological / Pelvic Scan

Infertility Baseline Scan

Trimester-Specific Surveillance

6 – 13 Weeks

18 – 24 Weeks

28 – 40 Weeks

Precision. Expertise. Compassionate Care.

ISUOG-Trained Sonologist

State-of-the-Art Equipment

Integrated Clinical Context

Same-Day Reporting

High-Risk Pregnancy Expertise

Comfortable, Private Environment

Book Your Scan at Balaji Horizon