One scan, several uses
During pregnancy it follows the baby's development. In gynaecology it explores the uterus and ovaries: pelvic pain, abnormal periods, cysts, fibroids.
3D/4D ultrasound · Marrakech
3D/4D ultrasound in Marrakech
Ultrasound is the reference examination for pregnancy follow-up and gynaecology. 3D and 4D images complement standard ultrasound when they provide useful information. In Marrakech, Dr Oussama Rachid, an obstetrician-gynaecologist, performs gynaecological and obstetric ultrasound at the clinic. This page is informational: it does not replace a consultation.
What 3D/4D adds
3D ultrasound gives a volume image; 4D adds real-time movement. It can help visualise some structures better, without replacing standard ultrasound.
A medical indication
The examination is offered when it is useful. Image quality depends on several factors, including the baby's position: a perfect image cannot be guaranteed.
Safety
Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionising radiation. It is performed by a trained doctor, for the time needed for the examination.
Ultrasounds during pregnancy follow-up
As a rule, three reference scans mark the pregnancy: one in the first trimester to confirm and date the pregnancy and examine the embryo, one in the second trimester to examine the baby's anatomy in detail, and one in the third trimester to check growth, position and the placenta.
Others may be added according to your situation (pain, bleeding, high-risk pregnancy, twins). The schedule is set with your doctor.
Gynaecological ultrasound
Outside pregnancy, ultrasound examines the uterus, the ovaries and the lining of the womb: looking for a fibroid, a polyp or an ovarian cyst, investigating pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, checking the position of an IUD, monitoring ovulation in a fertility work-up.
Depending on the situation it is done through the abdomen or the vagina: see the Endovaginal ultrasound page.
3D/4D images: when are they useful?
3D gives an image in volume; 4D adds movement. They help to clarify certain surface anomalies (face, limbs) or the shape of the uterus (septum, malformation), to find a misplaced IUD or to show better an anomaly already seen in 2D.
They never replace standard ultrasound, which remains the basis of monitoring.
What ultrasound cannot do
A normal scan does not guarantee the absence of every anomaly: some conditions cannot be seen on imaging. Image quality also depends on the baby's position, the amount of amniotic fluid and the mother's build.
For the same reason, a disappointing image is not a failure: the doctor may suggest checking again at another time.
After the examination: the report and next steps
The doctor comments on the images during the examination, measures what needs measuring and writes a report that you keep in your file. If an anomaly is suspected, he explains it calmly, proposes the useful further tests and, if needed, a specialist opinion.
You can ask any question: the aim is that you leave the clinic having understood what was seen.
Preparing
Depending on the examination, simple preparation may be requested. It is explained when you book.
Procedures and examinations
The procedures and examinations linked to this care. Each is offered after a consultation, according to your situation.
Obstetric ultrasound
Following the baby's development at key stages.
- Dating the pregnancy
- Growth monitoring
- Screening scans
3D/4D ultrasound
Volume and moving images when they are useful.
- Complement to standard ultrasound
- Visualising certain structures
- Medical indication
Pelvic ultrasound
Exploring the uterus and ovaries.
- Pelvic pain
- Abnormal periods
- Cysts or fibroids
Frequently asked questions
Does a 3D/4D scan replace follow-up scans?
No, it complements them when useful. Pregnancy follow-up relies on follow-up scans at key stages.
Is ultrasound dangerous for the baby?
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. It is performed for medical purposes by a trained doctor.
Can we always get nice images?
No: the baby's position and other factors affect quality. It does not reflect the baby's health.
Is preparation needed?
It depends on the examination. Instructions are given when you book.
At what stage is the anomaly scan done?
Usually in the second trimester, around 20 to 25 weeks of amenorrhoea. The doctor tells you the date suited to your pregnancy.
Can the baby's sex be known?
Often from the second trimester, but it depends on the baby's position and is never guaranteed.
Can an ultrasound be wrong?
Like any examination, it has limits. An anomaly can go unseen or, more rarely, an image can be misread: this is why follow-up includes several examinations and the clinical examination.
Is a gynaecological ultrasound painful?
It is most often painless. Brief discomfort is possible, especially by the vaginal route. Tell the doctor: he adapts his movements.
Also of interest
Informational content: it does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed.