What is fetal echocardiography?

This is a test using sound waves (ultrasound) to show the structure of an unborn baby's heart. An obstetrician may get a limited view of a baby's heart during a routine pregnancy ultrasound. However, a specialist in fetal echocardiography can study a baby's heart in great detail using a fetal echocardiogram.

Who needs a detailed fetal echocardiogram?

Some pregnant women are at higher risk of giving birth to a baby with a heart defect. They should be considered for referral for a specialized fetal echocardiogram. Indications include

• a family history of congenital heart disease
• an abnormal fetal heart rhythm
• fetal heart abnormalities detected during a routine pregnancy ultrasound scan
• abnormality of another major organ system
• insulin-dependent (type 1) diabetes mellitus
• exposure to some drugs in early pregnancy. For example, some anti-epileptic drugs can damage the developing heart.
• abnormal amniocentesis (AM'ne-o-sen-TE'sis). This is abnormal amniotic fluid in the woman's uterus.

The ultrasound scanning may be done through the vagina or through the abdomen. There are no known risks to the mother or fetus.

Related AHA publications:

•  Fetal Echocardiography pamphlet [in AHA Web site]