Fetal heart ultrasound (fetal echo)
fetal echocardiogram · fetal echo · baby heart ultrasound in pregnancy · fetal heart scan
The doctor looks closely at your unborn baby's heart with ultrasound: the chambers, valves, blood vessels, and rhythm.
If the screening ultrasound raised questions about the heart, if parents or other children have heart defects, if the mother has diabetes, after IVF, and with some medicines during pregnancy.
⏱ Duration: usually 30 to 60 minutes; most often done at about 18 to 24 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Preparation. Usually none. You can eat and drink as usual.
- Time. The scan can take a while. Sometimes the baby lies in an awkward position. Do not plan anything important right after.
- Clothing. Comfortable clothes that make it easy to uncover your belly.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your pregnancy record card
- Past ultrasounds and screenings
- Wipes or a towel
How it goes
- You lie on your back or slightly on your side
- Gel is put on your belly
- The doctor moves the probe to find a good view of the baby's heart
- Sometimes you are asked to turn or walk a bit so the baby changes position
- The doctor looks at the heart from different angles and with color blood flow
What you'll feel
- Cool gel and light pressure from the probe
- Lying on your back for a long time can be uncomfortable. Tell the doctor. You can lie on your side
Afterwards
- The doctor usually tells you the result right away
- If something is found, you will be referred to a pediatric cardiologist. Many heart problems can be treated well
- Sometimes a repeat scan is planned later in pregnancy
Common questions
Is this ultrasound safe for the baby?
Yes. Ultrasound has been used in pregnancy for many years. It does not use radiation.
Why a separate heart scan if I had a screening?
At the screening, the heart is checked briefly. Here the doctor studies it in detail and sees more.