Filming the moment you see your baby for the first time on an ultrasound scan has become increasingly popular - but it may be putting mother and baby at risk.
Sonographers, who conduct ultrasounds throughout a pregnancy, say they are concerned that the distraction of relatives and mothers-to-be recording the scans on phones and camcorders could lead to them missing crucial information.
The Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) has issued new guidance recommending that the practice is not permitted, but it stressed it believes any decisions should be taken by hospitals on an individual basis.
Nigel Thomson, from the SCoR, said: "The concern is that recording can affect the concentration of the sonographer doing the examination and he or she may be distracted and miss vital observations.
"People taking home videos can also unnecessarily extend the time of the ultrasound examination," he continued. "We would like to see hospitals have a clear policy following a risk assessment taking account of sonographer preferences, local policies and the views of patient liaison groups. Departments should also advise staff how to deal with people who film without permission, or carry on when asked to stop."
Copyright Press Association 2010
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