Getting a fetal echocardiogram can be both an overwhelming and clarifying time. Here's why your doctor might recommend one to best support your unborn baby.
While congenital heart defects are the most common of all birth defects in the United States, peace of mind comes from knowing prenatal screenings are widely available to detect these conditions early. Through the Fetal Cardiology Program at Riley Children’s Health, fetal echocardiograms are performed when there is a concern about your baby’s heart.
Read this blog to learn more about a fetal echocardiogram—when it’s recommended for pregnant mothers, and how it can provide support for you and your baby.
What is a fetal echocardiogram?
A fetal echocardiogram, or a fetal echo, is a prenatal ultrasound focusing on the baby’s heart that is done during pregnancy when there is a possible problem with the unborn baby’s heart. The test evaluates the structures and function of the baby’s heart, taking detailed images of the fetal heart to determine if there is a problem.
Fetal echoes are typically performed between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy but can be done at any point later in pregnancy, too. If your OB doctor has concerns, or if any of the risk factors below apply, a fetal echo should be scheduled. Prompt fetal cardiac imaging leads to the best possible outcomes.
Reasons to Have a Fetal Echocardiogram
Although not necessary for all pregnant mothers, your OBGYN or maternal-fetal provider might recommend a fetal echo if a prenatal ultrasound suspects a possible fetal heart issue. Other reasons for a fetal echo might include:
- Family history of heart problems
- Genetic disorders
- Anomalies or problems involving your baby’s organs
- Twin, triplet, or multiple gestation pregnancies
- Maternal health conditions (such as diabetes, lupus, or other chronic diseases)
- Previous pregnancies involving a congenital heart defect
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies
Benefits of Fetal Echocardiograms
There are several important benefits to getting a fetal echo, including:
- Early detection: Finding heart problems before your baby is born allows for better planning and treatment.
- Prepared birth plan: If your baby needs special care after delivery due to a heart problem, your medical team can arrange a proper birth plan.
- Improved outcomes: Early diagnosis of fetal heart problems can lead to better outcomes, including improved chances for survival and less risk to baby, after birth.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A fetal echo is completely safe and painless, and it works like a normal pregnancy ultrasound. It is performed in a calm, comfortable setting and is typically done after 18 weeks gestation. The process looks like:
- Lasts about 30 minutes
- A sonographer or fetal cardiologist will perform the test while you lie on your back.
- An ultrasound probe (small hand-held device) is moved across your belly to capture images of your baby’s heart in real time.
After the test, your fetal cardiologist will carefully evaluate the imaging to learn how your baby’s heart is functioning and give you the results immediately after. If a problem is found, your care team—involving fetal cardiologists, MFM providers and other disciplines—will determine an individualized care plan that will best suit you and your baby through the rest of your pregnancy and beyond.
Peace of mind starts before birth
Though hearing that you might need a fetal echo can be scary, know that it is an important tool that provides answers, guides care, improves outcomes for babies with heart disease, and offers peace of mind before your baby is even born. Whether it rules out a concern or helps your team prepare for a heart condition, a fetal echo can empower you with clarity so that you can raise your baby with great confidence.
Learn more
At Riley Children’s, the Fetal Cardiology Program supports you and your baby at every step of the way, offering comprehensive care for fetal heart conditions. Learn about fetal cardiology at Riley Children’s.
Additionally, for more, read these related blogs about fetal echoes:
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