New pilot to turn ultrasounds into 3D-printed moulds for parents with sight loss

Traditional 20-week pregnancy scans will be transformed into 3D-printed models for parents and grandparents with sight loss as part of a new pilot scheme.

The initiative by Guide Dogs will give those who cannot see ultrasound screens or print-offs the chance to trace the contours of their baby before they arrive.

The charity said people with sight loss are often “excluded from significant life moments” that others take for granted.

As part of the scheme, known as First Hello, expectant parents with sight loss, as well as their family members with impaired vision, can order bespoke tactile sonograms online.

They are created by uploading a 20-week 2D ultrasound scan, which is then transformed into a render and 3D-printed.

For the initial pilot, around 50 moulds will be available to the public.

Kerry Bevan, head of support services at Guide Dogs, said: “Every parent, grandparent and loved one deserves to experience the joy of early parenting milestones.

“Too often, people with sight loss are excluded from significant life moments that others take for granted.

“While this tactile sonogram project is an exciting pilot, it represents just one of the many ways Guide Dogs supports people who need it – breaking down barriers, celebrating life’s important firsts, and empowering individuals to live life unleashed.”

Reece Finnegan-Knight, who is expecting a baby and received a tactile sonogram, said: “Holding the tactile scan for the very first time was an incredible experience.

“I didn’t feel like I got much from our first scan appointments, and I found it really hard thinking that friends and family knew more about my baby than I did.

“First Hello gave that moment back to me. It’s so important because it’s giving parents like me that special moment.”

The launch of the pilot comes after a Guide Dogs survey of 2,000 adults in the UK with a form of sight loss found more than half (54%) feel standard format pregnancy scans should be made more inclusive.

Eight in 10 people with impaired vision told the poll all parents should be able to experience pregnancy milestones, while almost two thirds (64%) said being able to touch a sonogram could help family members with sight loss feel more included in the family moment.

Published: 07/09/2026 by Radio NewsHub