Maternal reactions to two-dimensional compared to three-dimensional foetal ultrasonography

Abstract

Our objective was to quantitatively compare maternal reactions to viewing a three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound image of the foetal face to a traditional two-dimensional (2D) sonographic image. One hundred and twelve pregnant women were asked to evaluate their excitement, relief, amazement and satisfaction reactions to 2D and 3D ultrasound images of their foetus' face. A weighted kappa Cochran-Armitage trend test, Fisher exact test and generalised estimating equations were used to analyse the data obtained. 3D imaging was found to result in significantly more favourable reactions than 2D imaging of the foetal face. 3D imaging was significantly better than 2D in regard to the clearness of the image, feeling closer to the baby, experiencing amazement and recognising specific facial features. We hypothesised that 3D images might evoke more feelings of fear than 2D, but our analysis found there were no significant differences in this regard. 3D ultrasonography of the foetal face is well received by patients. It has been shown in this study to elicit stronger and more positive maternal reactions regarding excitement, amazement and satisfaction than experienced with 2D ultrasound.

Keywords:

• Three-dimensional ultrasound
• foetus
• pregnancy

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.