How can fetal heart defects be detected?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am eight months pregnant. My obstetrician performed an ultrasound, and according to her, my unborn child's heart size is at 64 percent, when it should be less than 50 percent. She advised me to have a 2D echo done, but I have not received the results yet. Is my child in danger?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Fetal echocardiography is not 100 percent reliable, so cardiac defects cannot be solely decided on imaging. Comprehensive patient history, other illnesses, medicines taken during pregnancy, and family history are important. If the fetus is normal with regular movements and growth, and no signs of fetal stress, then one should be satisfied about the fetus. Only a reliable diagnosis can be made after the birth of the baby. Echocardiography is repeated after birth if pre-birth echocardiography is abnormal.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.