About Ultrasound Examinations
Ultrasound examination is a test that can be performed safely and securely without using radiation. Ultrasound examination is a test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to visualize the inside of the body. Sound waves enter the body, and the reflected signal from the baby is displayed as an image.
This examination, unlike X-rays, does not use radiation, making it safe to repeat during pregnancy—a significant advantage. Therefore, it is used as a central examination during prenatal check-ups to monitor the health of both the baby and the mother.
During the ultrasound examination in pregnancy, we check the following:
- The baby’s size and growth status
- Heartbeat and body movements
- Placental location, amount of amniotic fluid, and blood flow status
This is a precious time where not only the physician but the patient herself can see the baby on the screen, truly realizing the baby’s growth.
The state-of-the-art “Voluson™ Expert 22”
GE’s Voluson Expert 22 is a cutting-edge ultrasound machine considered world-class in the following aspects:
1. Next-Generation Imaging Performance
Based on Lyric Architecture, the equipment can not only depict 2D images but also 3D and 4D images, and even display images under conditions where ultrasound examination is otherwise difficult. Furthermore, functions like UltraHD, Augment, Radiant, and HDlive Studio+ enable more precise visualization of the delicate structures of the fetal brain and heart.
2. AI Equipped Internally
By automating part of the measurements using AI, the equipment improves the evaluation of complex anatomical structures and diagnostic accuracy in routine clinical practice, enabling early detection.
3. High-Resolution Monitor
The Voluson Expert 22 features a 23.8-inch monitor, enabling precise observation.
We thoroughly safeguard the health of the mother and baby with check items tailored to the gestational week.
Our ultrasound room was designed to place a screen-sharing monitor directly in the patient’s line of sight. We do not just look at the image; we provide a careful explanation as we review the baby’s condition on the monitor together. We perform daily prenatal check-ups to help our patients spend their pregnancy with peace of mind through ultrasound examinations that are “visible” and “convey information.” Please feel free to consult us about any small anxieties or questions.
- Early Stage (up to 12 weeks): Confirmation of established pregnancy, fetal heartbeat confirmation, determination of estimated due date, and gestational weeks.
- Middle Stage (13 to 30 weeks): Checking fetal morphology, organs, placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid.
- Late Stage (30 weeks and beyond): Estimating fetal weight, evaluating blood flow, confirming fetal position, and presentation.
*For the management of pregnancy and delivery, our clinic performs detailed fetal ultrasound examinations as part of prenatal diagnosis, following the guidelines of the Japan Society of Ultrasonics in Medicine. Please refer to the Fetal Dock page for details on Fetal Detailed Ultrasound Examination.
Information you should know for a more enjoyable prenatal check-up ultrasound.
3D/4D Ultrasound at Every Check-up
Our clinic performs 3D/4D ultrasounds free of charge at every prenatal check-up. While the baby’s face may be challenging to see on some days, depending on their position, we have established a 3D/4D ultrasound outpatient clinic called the “Baby Visit Echo” as one of our specialized clinics. Patients who wish to use this service are welcome to do so.
Image Data Delivery
Prints are available as a memento. Furthermore, you can view the video of each examination on your mobile device after the prenatal check-up. Our staff will carefully guide you on how to use the dedicated app for video viewing.
Examination Time
10 to 15 minutes on average (May vary depending on the circumstances)
Family Attendance
Always possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Q | Can I receive an ultrasound examination at every prenatal check-up? |
| A | Yes. Our clinic performs an ultrasound examination at every prenatal check-up. We strive to thoroughly confirm the baby’s growth and health status each time. |
| Q | Is there an extra charge for a 3D/4D ultrasound? |
| A | No. Our clinic performs 3D/4D ultrasounds free of charge at every prenatal check-up. You can see your baby in a more three-dimensional view. |
| Q | Can family members be present during the ultrasound examination? |
| A | Yes, family members can attend at any time. If requested, the physician will provide a careful explanation while you view the baby’s condition together. |
| Q | Can I take home the videos or images from the ultrasound examination? |
| A | Yes. You can view the video on your own smartphone after each examination, and prints of the images are also available as a memento. Our staff will carefully guide you on viewing methods. |
| Q | Is the ultrasound examination safe? |
| A | Yes. Ultrasound examination does not use radiation, so that you can receive it safely even during pregnancy. No risks to the fetus have been reported, making it a safe examination. |
| Q | When will I know the baby’s gender? |
| A | Gender determination is often possible after 16 weeks of pregnancy, although this depends on the fetal position and gestational week. Please understand that accurate determination can sometimes be difficult. |
| Q | What happens if an abnormality is found on the ultrasound? |
| A | If an abnormality is suspected, we will guide you through a precise examination by a specialist physician. Our clinic also performs a Fetal Detailed Ultrasound Examination (Fetal Dock) in accordance with the guidelines of the Japan Society of Ultrasonics in Medicine. Please be assured that we will respond promptly and appropriately as necessary. |
| Q | Can I have the examination again if the baby’s face was not visible? |
| A | If the baby’s face is difficult to see due to their position, we can guide you to the “Baby Visit Echo” (3D/4D Ultrasound Clinic). Please feel free to consult us. |
Booking an Appointment
Outpatient consultations at our clinic are by appointment. For smoother guidance, please make a reservation in advance using the online reservation form. Even without a reservation, you may receive a consultation on the day. Please feel free to inquire.
TEL：03-6450-3850
