How does the diagnosis of omphalocele affect the pregnancy?
The diagnosis of omphalocele is confirmed by ultrasound. Because of the increased risk of an associated anomaly, a targeted ultrasound will be performed by a perinatologist. Omphaloceles can be associated with some chromosomal abnormalities (up to 30 percent) so an amniocentesis may be offered. An ultrasound of your baby’s heart (fetal echocardiogram) may also be recommended. These babies will be monitored closely throughout the pregnancy. Ultrasounds will be done every two to four weeks to assess how well the fetus is growing, the amniotic fluid volume and fetal well-being. You will be instructed on daily fetal movement counting at about 26 weeks’ gestation. Non-stress tests (a recording of the baby’s heart rate while you are sitting and pressing a button each time the baby moves) may be scheduled at around 32 weeks’ gestation. Biophysical profiles (BPP) may also be scheduled weekly. The BPP is an ultrasound that monitors amniotic fluid volume, the baby’s breathing movements, and move
