Who should have a fetal echo?
Your obstetrician will decide if you need a fetal echo. In general, mothers who are at increased risk for having a baby with a heart abnormality should have a fetal echo. Some of the risk factors are: A question of a heart abnormality on a routine obstetric ultrasound When the structure of the baby’s heart cannot be visualized completely on a routine ultrasound When an obstetric ultrasound detects abnormalities in other organs When the baby’s heart rate is too fast, too slow, or irregular A family history of a heart defect Certain medications or drugs taken by the mother, such as anti-seizure medications, some antidepressants, alcohol, amphetamines, and others Maternal diabetes, including diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
