How Far Along Should I Be for a 3D/5D Ultrasound?

UC Baby - Best time for a UC Baby Appointment

You’re ready to meet your baby. You want to see their tiny features, watch them move, maybe even catch a little smile—but you might be wondering…

When is the best time for a 3D or 5D ultrasound?

At UC Baby, we’ve helped thousands of parents experience the joy of seeing their baby’s face before birth. Timing matters, and this blog breaks down the ideal windows for getting the best possible images and videos.

📅 General Guidelines: When to Book

Ultrasound Type	Ideal Timing	Why
Fetal Age Assessment	7- 14 + weeks	Confirms how far along you are and estimates baby’s gestational age
Heartbeat Vitality Check	8+ weeks	Safe time to hear baby’s heartbeat clearly
Gender Determination	16+ weeks	Baby’s anatomy is visible and accurate
3D/4D Ultrasound 5D HD Live	26–32+ weeks	Baby is developed but still has room to move. Clear facial details + life-like video quality
Silver or Trial Session	over 32+ weeks	Unpredictable, due to baby’s position. Very clear face shots are possible. Otherwise, get the 2D images, heartbeat check, position, etc.

🤰 Why 26–32 Weeks Is the “Sweet Spot”

The best time to get a 3D or 5D ultrasound is usually between 26 and 32 weeks of gestation.

At this point:

Baby has developed enough facial features to see clearly.
There’s still enough fluid and space to get good angles.
Movements like yawning, kicking, and smiling are more visible.
You’ll capture more detailed and emotional moments on video.

What Happens If You Book Too Early?

Before 20 weeks, your baby may appear too small and skeletal.
There may not be enough fat to show cheeks or features.
You might not get the clear images you’re hoping for.

What If You Book Later Than 32 Weeks?

Baby may have moved into the birth position (head down, facing your back).
Space is tighter, so it’s harder to get full facial views.
You may need a repeat appointment if the baby’s position isn’t ideal to take face pictures.

That said, some babies cooperate beautifully at 33–35 weeks, especially if it’s not your first pregnancy and the baby is facing forward.

“We went at 31 weeks and got perfect pictures—our little girl was smiling and sucking her thumb!”
– UC Baby Client, Calgary

🗓️ Not Sure How Far Along You Are?

No worries—you’re not alone!

If you’re unsure how many weeks pregnant you’ll be on your desired scan date, you can:

Use a due date calculator based on your last menstrual period
Ask your OB, midwife, or prenatal care provider for a gestational age estimate

You can also reach out to your nearest UC Baby location—our team is happy to help you figure it out. We even offer a Fetal Age Assessment as part of select packages to confirm how far along you are and help you plan the perfect ultrasound experience.

💡 Tips for Better Results at Any Stage

Want the best possible images? Here’s how to prep:

Hydrate for 3–5 days before your scan (fluid helps with clarity).
Eat a light snack about 30 minutes before your session (to wake baby up!).
Wear loose clothing for comfort and easy access to your belly.
Bring family or friends—our studios are welcoming and spacious.

🎁 Make It Special With Add-Ons

No matter how far along you are, UC Baby offers keepsakes that make the moment unforgettable:

Heartbeat Bear (recording of your baby’s heartbeat)
USB of 3D/5D video footage
Printed 3D/5D images
Video on Demand option

All sessions can be upgraded or customized. You just have to contact your UC Baby Location for any upgrades or changes.

🧸 Don’t Forget: Every Pregnancy Is Different

Some parents get amazing 3D shots at 24 weeks, while others get them at 34 weeks. Your baby’s position, movement, placenta placement, and hydration all play a role.

But don’t stress—we offer free repeat sessions (for the Silver Package) if baby is shy or hiding!