Pregnancy is full of excitement – and sometimes worry. If an ultrasound raises questions about a baby’s heart, or there’s a known risk factor, expectant mothers may be referred for a fetal echocardiogram. While this can feel intimidating, it is often a reassuring step that helps families understand their baby’s health and plan for the future.
A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound that examines a baby’s heart before birth, explains Dr. Marise D’Souza, a pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore who sees patients at White Plains Hospital’s Pediatric Specialty Center. It provides detailed images that show how the heart is structured and how it’s functioning while the baby is in the womb.
Why a Fetal Echocardiogram May Be Recommended
Most women receive a routine anatomy ultrasound during pregnancy. A fetal echocardiogram is only recommended when there’s a reason to take a closer look, such as:
- An abnormal finding on routine ultrasound, such as one side of the heart or a valve looking smaller than expected
- Family history of congenital heart disease
- Maternal conditions like lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome
- Certain medications or exposures, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune conditions
- Difficulty visualizing the heart clearly on a standard ultrasound
The good news is that most fetal echocardiograms show the heart is developing normally, which can bring enormous relief.
What Happens During the Exam
Fetal echocardiography is noninvasive and safe for both parent and baby. During the exam, the cardiologist evaluates:
- Heart chambers
- Valves
- Blood vessels
- Heart rhythm
Parents also have time to ask questions and get clear, compassionate explanations.
Dr. D’Souza emphasizes that the goal isn’t just diagnosis, it’s preparation. Early detection allows families and care teams to plan for the best possible outcome.
Detecting a heart condition before birth gives families time to learn about the condition in advance, explore treatment options, and plan for delivery in the safest setting if specialized care or surgery are needed after the baby’s birth.
Care Close to Home
Having access to fetal echocardiography locally helps reduce stress. For more complex cases, providers can coordinate care seamlessly within the Montefiore Health System, ensuring babies receive advanced care while families stay close to home.
Whether the exam rules out serious heart disease or identifies a condition needing treatment, the goal is the same: supporting babies, children, and families with expert care, clear communication, and compassion.
Dr. Marise D’Souza is pediatric cardiologist at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore and sees patients at White Plains Hospital’s Pediatric Specialty Center. To make an appointment, call 914.849.5437.