Why You Should Think Twice Before Sharing Your Ultrasound Photos Online
Posted on 30 August 2025 by Jordan Nguyen — 4 min
Have you ever shared your ultrasound photo online without a second thought? It might seem like a harmless way to celebrate a cherished moment — but what if that simple act could expose you to unexpected risks and emotional discomfort? A recent story out of Japan shines a powerful spotlight on this very issue.
Earlier this year, Japan’s biggest online marketplace, Mercari, made a heartfelt plea to its users: stop selling ultrasound photos. Yes, you read that right — ultrasound photos, those intimate snapshots of your developing baby, were being bought and sold like common collectibles. Why does this matter? And what can we learn from it?
The Hidden Risks of Sharing Ultrasound Images
Ultrasound images are deeply personal. They capture the earliest glimpse of new life and carry immense emotional weight. But when these photos end up on public marketplaces, several problems arise:
- Privacy Breaches: Your ultrasound may include identifiable information such as your name or the hospital where the scan was done.
- Emotional Distress: Seeing your baby’s image sold without consent can be heart-wrenching.
- Potential Exploitation: These images can be misused in ways you never imagined.
Mercari’s plea, captured in this Gizmodo article, is a wake-up call for all of us. It urges us to be mindful about how we protect our stories and images during this vulnerable journey.
How Does This Connect to Sustainable Family Planning?
You might wonder, what does this have to do with sustainability or eco-friendly family planning? At MakeAMom, we believe that responsible parenthood isn’t just about welcoming new life — it’s about empowering choices that honor your privacy, health, and the environment.
MakeAMom offers reusable insemination kits designed for home use, allowing individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journey in a comfortable, private setting. These kits not only reduce medical waste compared to clinic visits but also maintain discreet packaging, helping protect your privacy every step of the way.
When you consider how vulnerable personal reproductive moments are — from insemination to ultrasound — it’s clear we need to guard our experiences with care and respect.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Ultrasound Photos and Privacy
So, what can you do to keep your ultrasound photos safe and your family’s journey personal?
- Keep It Private: Share ultrasound images only with trusted friends and family.
- Avoid Online Marketplaces: Never upload or allow others to sell your personal medical images.
- Use Secure Apps: If you want to share digitally, use platforms with strong privacy controls.
- Educate Yourself: Understand your rights regarding medical images and personal data.
By taking these steps, you create a safe space for your growing family and prevent your precious memories from becoming public commodities.
Embracing Privacy, Sustainability, and Empowerment Together
The story from Japan reminds us that the digital age requires new kinds of mindfulness — especially around life’s most intimate moments. As you embark on your family planning journey, consider tools and practices that align with your values: privacy, sustainability, and empowerment.
At MakeAMom, the focus is on providing reusable, discreet home insemination kits that put you in control, reduce waste, and protect your journey’s privacy. It’s about nurturing life with respect for your body, your story, and our planet.
So here’s a question for you: How will you protect your family’s story in this hyper-connected world? Have you considered sustainable and private options for your fertility journey?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your stories and ideas in the comments below — let’s build a community that values privacy, empowerment, and eco-friendly family planning together.
Remember, some moments are meant to be cherished quietly and safely. Your journey matters — protect it with love and care.