Diagnostic sonographer Lynn Hays has performed thousands of ultrasounds over the past eight years.
She has seen those images change drastically. Until 2007, 2D was the norm, then came 3D and 4D imaging, offering surface views of the baby, a popular option for elective ultrasounds to see the baby's developing features.
"You see the outside 3D is actually a still image, so it's frozen in time. When you switch over to 4D ultrasound, that's when it becomes live. It's real time," Hays said.
3D and 4D provided the most detailed way for expectant parents to see their babies in utero - until this year with the introduction of GE's HDlive technology.
"The HD turns it into more of a flesh look and you actually can see the hair on the baby, you can see the fine details," said Hays.
HDlive uses a movable light source combining 3D and 4D imaging, while also lighting up the baby to see clear, fine details like the puckered lips and shapes of toes.
This new technology does not take the place of regular ultrasounds. Doctors still want to check on the baby's internal structures.
4D and HD ultrasounds are considered elective. The best images are taken between 27 and 34 weeks.
