Fetal echocardiogram factsheet
Introduction
A fetal echocardiogram is a scan that uses sound waves to create pictures of an unborn baby's heart.
It can be used from 16-18 weeks of pregnancy to find a baby's heart rate and rhythm and any differences in how the heart develops. Differences in how a baby's heart develops during pregnancy are also called congenital heart abnormalities or defects.
聽Before the procedure
You do not need to prepare for this scan; you can eat and drink normally.
You should not put any lotions, creams or powders on your belly on the day of the scan.
聽During the scan
The fetal echocardiogram is like any other standard ultrasound during pregnancy.
- gel is put on your belly to help sound waves travel from the device, called a transducer, to your baby's heart and back again
- your doctor or technician will move the transducer around your belly to take images of the baby's heart and blood flow
- the images will be processed and appear on a video screen with sound or colour.
The scan should not be painful, but you may feel pressure from the transducer on your belly.
Sometimes, your baby's position can make it difficult to see all heart structures. You may be asked to move around the room or return after a small break to see if your baby changes position.
聽After the scan
You should be able to go home after the scan. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and make a plan for your baby's treatment if needed.
You may need to have repeat fetal echocardiograms at different stages of your pregnancy.
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Heart abnormalities after birth
Some heart abnormalities cannot be found or diagnosed before a baby is born.
Your doctor will discuss this with you and plan for any further tests or scans that may be needed.
Your treatment team will give the best treatment options for your baby if they are diagnosed with a heart abnormality after birth.
