A fetal echocardiography is an ultrasound-like test. It is usually carried out in the second trimester, between weeks 18 and 24. Your doctor can view the heart's structure and operation more clearly with the help of this examination.

This scan reveals information on the development and functionality of your baby's heart—sound waves used in the examination "echo" the fetal heart's structural components. A machine analyzes these sound waves to produce an echocardiogram, or image, of the inside of the subject's heart.

It also allows the clinical expert to see the blood flow of the fetus's heart. Through this thorough examination, your doctor can detect anomalies in the baby's blood flow or heartbeat.

About fetal echocardiography

Abdominal and transvaginal ultrasound are two ways fetal echocardiography may be carried out.

During an abdominal ultrasound, the doctor applies a transparent, water-based gel on your tummy and sweeps a handheld probe throughout the region. An image of the baby's heart is produced on a computer screen by the probe's sound waves after they have bounced off the baby's heart.

The doctor inserts a minute probe into the vagina during a transvaginal ultrasound. The picture produced by transvaginal ultrasound is better than that by abdominal ultrasound and may be performed earlier in the pregnancy.

Risk factors associated with echocardiography

Echocardiography employs ultrasonic technology, which uses no radiation, and has no known complications.

Preparing for fetal echocardiography

It should be possible for you to eat and normally drink before the scan. This test can be taken without having a full bladder. On the day of the fetal echocardiogram, avoid applying lotions, creams, or powders to your abdomen. It might take thirty minutes to two hours to complete the exam.

What to expect from the fetal echocardiography scan

The heart of your growing child is examined using sound waves during a fetal echocardiogram (echo,) which is helpful in:

Diagnosing prenatal cardiac abnormalities.
Allowing medical professionals to prepare for potential difficulties during labor and delivery.
Planning an early birth.
Administering quick treatment after the baby is delivered.

Possible results of the fetal echocardiography scan

The doctor will review the findings and respond to any questions you may have during your follow-up consultation. Normal findings indicate that your doctor did not discover any heart abnormalities.

When to see a doctor

You could need more testing, such as a fetal MRI scan or other high-resolution ultrasounds, if your doctor discovered a concern, such as a heart defect, rhythm irregularity, or other conditions.

Your doctor will also suggest services or professionals that may help with the condition of your unborn child. Additionally, you may need to have more than one echocardiogram performed. If your doctor suspects anything else could be wrong, you might also need extra tests.

It's crucial to remember that not all conditions can be diagnosed by your doctor using the findings of an echocardiogram. Even with cutting-edge technology, specific issues, like a hole in the heart, are hard to spot.

Your doctor will use the test findings to explain what they can and cannot diagnose. If you have any concerns regarding a fetal electrocardiography scan.

Conclusion

Fetal echocardiogram findings that are abnormal may not be definitive or need further testing to determine the cause. There is no need for more tests when an issue has been ruled out. Once your doctor has identified an issue, you may better manage your pregnancy and be ready for birth.

The results of this test will assist you and your doctor in preparing for any postpartum treatments your baby could need, such as corrective surgery. To assist you in making wise choices for the duration of your pregnancy, you may also get counselling and support.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Amritsar - Abadi Court Road. Call 1860-500-4424 to book an appointment.

1. What is the purpose of a fetal echocardiogram?

Fetal echocardiography is performed to check for any serious issues with the growing baby's heart walls and valves, blood flow in the arteries to and from the heart, and the heart's ability to pump blood.

2. How long does it take for the results to be obtained?

Most of the time, the expert will evaluate the fetal echocardiography the same day and inform you of the findings. Sometimes second fetal echocardiography is necessary.

3. When is an echocardiogram recommended?

Due to risk factors, such as maternal diabetes, assisted reproductive technology (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF), or a family history of congenital cardiac problems, pregnant women may sometimes be referred for fetal echocardiography. In some situations, a referral is issued because the obstetric anatomy scan does not clearly show the fetus's heart or because there is worry about a structural or rhythm issue with the heart.
There are a variety of reasons to do fetal echocardiography, including:
1. A history of certain cardiac conditions in the family
2. Any health issue the mother has that might harm the baby's heart.
3. A genetic condition of the unborn child.
4. A standard obstetrical ultrasound during pregnancy reveals an anomaly.
5. Difficulty in spotting the baby's heart on a routine obstetrical ultrasound.