What is fetal ultrasound?
Fetal ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that allows to evaluate the correct functioning of the baby’s heart during pregnancy. Its purpose is to determine the presence of any congenital heart disease, and if confirmed, echocardiography allows it to be monitored over time until delivery. It is not part of the routine tests performed during pregnancy, but it is recommended if there is suspicion of specific malformations.
What does it consist of?
The pregnant woman lies down, a probe is placed in her abdomen and the ultrasound images are projected on a screen. This makes it possible to observe the anatomy of the fetal heart (in two dimensions). These scans are then subjected to color Doppler or pulsed Doppler to observe the movement of blood in the heart.
Fetal ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that makes it possible to evaluate the correct functioning of the baby’s heart during pregnancy.
Why is it performed?
The main reasons why it is performed are the following:
- Heart disease detected by ultrasound.
- Maternal heart disease or other types of maternal disease, such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, infections contracted during pregnancy (such as rubella).
- Presence of heart disease in the family
- Genetic abnormalities in the fetus
- Twins sharing a single placenta (monochorionic twin pregnancy).
- Taking certain medications or alcohol during pregnancy
Preparing for fetal echocardiography
There is no need for specific preparation before performing fetal echocardiography. However, it is necessary for the mother to obtain information on the family medical history to inform the physician of the presence of any genetically transmissible heart disease, and to bring with her the results of the classic ultrasound to compare with those of the fetal echocardiography.