Prenatal (Ultrasound) Portraits Considered Unsafe

If used properly, ultrasound technology can be an invaluable diagnostic tool for monitoring the growth and development of the baby. But ultrasounds are also being used for prenatal portraits, an unborn baby's first photograph, in a controversial and possibly unlawful practice.

Although using ultrasound technology is generally considered to be safe, it's not without some risks because the energy from the ultrasound could theoretically affect the unborn child. The prenatal portraits entail high intensities of ultrasound and long times of exposure.

A chain of ultrasound imaging centers called Fetal Fotos describes "your ultrasound experience" on its website as follows: "Imagine the bonding that occurs when you first see your unborn child. ...Enjoy our private, relaxed, and fun atmosphere with family and friends at any of our convenient locations nationwide." Another chain called A Peek in the Pod, says, "State-of-the-art ultrasound technology is used to provide 3D imaging of your child, often sharp enough to reveal your baby's features within still images." The fetal photographs usually cost between $195 and $295, and insurance companies do not cover these pictures.

The Federal Government and some medical associations have issued strict warnings against the prenatal portraits, but there is little action being taken behind the tough talk. There is concern that the technicians who are administering the ultrasound may not be properly trained. They may not see an abnormality or they could misinterpret the image and not know how to treat or counsel the parents. Companies that provide prenatal portraits, however, downplay these concerns.

The Food and Drug Administration's stance is "that the people that promote, sell, or lease the equipment for making the fetal videos should know that we view this as an unapproved use of a medical device." A spokeswoman for the FDA also said that the agency is encouraging states to take action against the pictures because the states regulate the practice of medicine. She also added that the FDA does not approve of these ultrasound devices being used for the fetal videos but they won't regulate the users.

The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) tests the ultrasound practitioners for proficiency and issues their credentials. The organization's director of communications has said that they support the position of another professional society, the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, which "discourages the non-medical use of ultrasound for psychosocial or entertainment purposes." The ARDMS will take action only if someone falsely claims to be certified to use the equipment, otherwise, "we just disapprove and discourage" the practice of making the prenatal portraits.

The medical advisors at Consumer Reports on Health, a newsletter published monthly by Consumer Union, cautions any expecting parents not to take a chance with the prenatal videos. There is no point is purposely exposing the mother and unborn child to unnecessary ultrasound energy if it isn't medically necessary. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist also discourages the use of the ultrasound technology and equipment solely to create a keepsake photo or video.