Fetal echocardiography is a specialised, completely safe ultrasound that maps your unborn baby's heart chambers, valves and blood flow using sound waves — with no radiation and no risk to mother or baby. It is usually performed between the 18th and 24th week of pregnancy.
An early diagnosis lets your family and care team plan the safest place and time for delivery, and arrange newborn cardiac support in advance. Dr. Nandi has performed a large share of his 40,000+ echocardiographies in expectant mothers.
When is a fetal echo recommended?
- A family history of congenital heart disease or a previously affected child
- Maternal diabetes, lupus, or infections such as rubella during pregnancy
- An abnormal heartbeat or a suspicious finding on the routine anomaly scan
- Certain medications taken during early pregnancy, or IVF pregnancies and twins
