Comprehensive Fetal Cardiac Evaluation and Consultation

I perform fetal echocardiography when a potential heart abnormality is suspected on screening ultrasound or when an abnormal heart rhythm is detected.

Reasons for fetal echo:

• Heart defect noted on anatomy scan or other obstetric ultrasound
• Abnormal fetal heart rate or rhythm
• Increased nuchal translucency
• Abnormal genetic screening (including 22q11.2 deletion or trisomy 21)
• Abnormality noted outside of the heart on ultrasound

Certain family or personal medical histories increase the risk of fetal heart disease. I evaluate pregnancies when there is a significant risk based on family or personal background.

Reasons for fetal echo:

• Family history of congenital heart disease
• Personal or family history of connective tissue disorder (such as Marfan syndrome or Loeys-Dietz syndrome)

If you have a genetic condition or a family history of specific types of heart disease, a fetal echocardiogram can offer peace of mind or help your care team prepare for any needs your baby may have after birth.

Certain maternal health conditions increase the risk of heart disease in the baby.

Reasons for fetal echo:

• Maternal diabetes
• Maternal autoimmune conditions, including lupus or Sjogren's syndrome
• Positive Ro/SSA antibodies
• Maternal use of certain medications during pregnancy (such as lithium, anticonvulsants, or others)

When any of these conditions are present, a fetal echocardiogram may be recommended as part of prenatal screening to evaluate the baby's heart and to plan for delivery and postnatal care.

Some aspects of how the pregnancy occurs or progresses warrant fetal cardiac evaluation.

Reasons for fetal echo:

• Conception by in vitro fertilization (IVF)
• Twin or multiple pregnancy
• Unexplained fetal growth restriction

These factors can carry increased risk for certain heart conditions. A fetal echocardiogram provides important information about your baby's cardiac health and helps guide prenatal and postnatal planning.

During a fetal echocardiogram, I use specialized ultrasound to visualize your baby's heart chambers, valves, and blood vessels. I evaluate whether the heart is developing normally and assess blood flow patterns. The study takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

If the images are incomplete or technically challenging on the first visit (which can happen because of the baby's position or other factors), a follow-up study may be recommended. I will explain everything I find during your visit and discuss what to expect for delivery and your baby's care after birth.