Will you see a little nose, a tiny hand or your baby moving on screen? When you’re looking forward to a 4D ultrasound, choosing your appointment date is part of the excitement.
The best time for a 4D scan depends on what you hope to see and your individual pregnancy. At Peek-a-Babe, our general window for facial images is 24–35 weeks. Our team can help you choose an appointment within that window based on your stage of pregnancy and the package you’re considering.
Here’s what to know when planning your visit to our Goodwood, Cape Town practice.
What Is a 4D Scan?
A 4D scan shows three-dimensional ultrasound images in motion. Rather than seeing only a still image, you may be able to watch your baby’s movements as they happen.
The terms describe different ways of displaying ultrasound images:
- 2D: A flat, two-dimensional view.
- 3D: A three-dimensional still image.
- 4D: A moving three-dimensional view.
Depending on the images available, you might see your baby’s profile, a hand near their face or a change in position. Every appointment offers a different view—babies don’t follow a photography schedule!
For more explanations, visit our frequently asked questions about 4D scans.
The Best Time for a 4D Scan at Peek-a-Babe
For parents hoping to see facial detail, Peek-a-Babe generally recommends arranging a visit between 24 and 35 weeks.
There isn’t one perfect week that guarantees the same results for everyone. Your baby’s position, the fluid around them and the tissue between the ultrasound probe and your baby all influence the images we can obtain.
When you request your appointment, tell us how many weeks pregnant you are. We can discuss the timing and explain what to expect.
Can I Have a 4D Scan Earlier?
Our standard 4D package is available between 12 and 36 weeks, subject to suitability. However, the range in which an appointment is available is not the same as the preferred window for facial images.
If your main reason for enquiring is to see your baby’s face, speak to us about timing before choosing a date. An earlier appointment may offer a different view from the facial images you’ve seen in our gallery.
What If I’m Expecting Twins?
Our general recommendation for twins is to enquire about an appointment at around 25 weeks, as space can become more limited sooner.
It may not be possible to capture both babies clearly in the same image. Discuss timing with your maternity-care provider and let our booking team know you’re expecting twins. You’ll also find our current guidance in the Peek-a-Babe FAQs.
What If My Baby Is Facing Away?
Sometimes a baby’s position makes clear facial images difficult to obtain. A hand in front of the face or a position facing away from the probe can affect the view.
That doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. Image quality depends on factors that neither you nor the sonographer can completely control.
Come with curiosity rather than a particular picture in mind. We’ll explain what’s visible during your appointment, but we cannot guarantee a specific pose or facial image.
What Happens During Your Appointment?
At Peek-a-Babe, we want you to feel welcome and know what to expect before you arrive.
You’ll settle onto the scanning bed, expose your tummy and have water-based gel applied to your skin. Your sonographer then uses a handheld probe to obtain the images, while you watch on the screen.
For a general explanation of the equipment and examination, see this guide to obstetric ultrasound from RadiologyInfo.
Your appointment is also an opportunity to ask questions. If you would like your baby’s gender to remain a surprise, tell us before scanning begins.
Read our step-by-step scanning session guide for more about the experience.
How Much Does a 4D Scan Cost in Cape Town?
At Peek-a-Babe, our standard 4D Scan package is currently R800 and includes:
- A 30-minute appointment.
- Baby’s heart rate and estimated weight.
- Gender confirmation if requested and a suitable view is available.
- Digital images supplied through an emailed link.
The appointment length includes the overall session; it should not be understood as a promise of 30 minutes of continuous ultrasound exposure.
Explore our current scan packages and fees for the full selection and confirm inclusions when booking.
How Should I Prepare for My Visit?
A little preparation can help your appointment feel relaxed:
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early for registration and consent.
- Wear comfortable separates, such as a top with trousers or a skirt.
- Tell us your preferences, particularly if you want to keep the gender a surprise.
- Ask about bringing family. Loved ones are welcome; confirm guest arrangements when booking.
- Follow the preparation instructions provided for your appointment.
Our scanning session guide explains what happens from arrival to receiving your images.
Meet the Sonographer Behind Peek-a-Babe
Peek-a-Babe was established in 2006 by Melanie Reyneke, a qualified sonographer whose experience includes working in the United Kingdom and training other healthcare professionals.
As a mother, Mel understood the curiosity parents feel about their baby’s little details. That personal perspective helped shape Peek-a-Babe’s welcoming approach.
Discover more about Mel and the Peek-a-Babe story.
Plan Your 4D Scan in Goodwood, Cape Town
If you’re wondering when to arrange your appointment, you don’t need to work it out alone. Tell us your pregnancy stage and what you’d like to know, and our team can explain the available options.
Peek-a-Babe is at 130 Townsend Street, Goodwood, Cape Town.
Explore our packages or request your appointment to start planning your visit.
Timing information here relates to the images that may be obtained, not a recommendation that every pregnancy needs an additional scan. Discuss additional ultrasound with your pregnancy-care provider and continue attending all recommended antenatal appointments. Peek-a-Babe’s additional viewing scans do not replace routine medical care.