Children's Cardiology Group
Fetal Echocardiography Q & A What is fetal echocardiography?
When is fetal echocardiography needed?
Your OB/GYN or midwife may recommend fetal echocardiography if they have concerns about your baby’s heart. During standard prenatal care, a routine sonogram provides a basic view of your child’s heart. Sometimes, your provider can’t tell for sure from this view whether your baby’s heart looks normal, so they may order a fetal echocardiogram to get a clearer picture of the heart.
Your provider may also recommend fetal echocardiography for the following concerns:
- Your unborn baby has an abnormal heart rhythm
- You have a family history of heart disease
- You have an older child with a heart condition
- You’ve used drugs, alcohol, or some prescription medications while pregnant
- Your baby has a health condition associated with heart problems
- In-vitro fertilization or multiple gestation pregnancies
Mothers with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or lupus, also have an increased risk for fetal heart abnormalities.
What should I expect during a fetal echocardiography procedure?
Transabdominal echocardiography
During an abdominal echocardiography procedure, you wear a hospital gown and recline on a table. Your sonographer applies a special gel to the skin on your abdomen, then passes the ultrasound handpiece across your stomach. The ultrasound waves enter your body and bounce off of your baby’s heart, creating a series of images.
After your echocardiography procedure, your cardiologist reviews all the images. The results of your fetal echocardiogram typically become available within a few days.
If your unborn child could have a heart condition, you need an accurate diagnosis to determine the best way to keep your baby safe and healthy. The skilled sonographers at Children’s Cardiology Group have extensive experience with fetal echocardiography. To schedule an appointment for the procedure, call the clinic nearest you, or request an appointment online today.