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An evaluation will include a fetal echocardiogram and a consultation with the physician. A fetal echocardiogram is an ultrasound test performed to evaluate the heart of a baby in detail during pregnancy. An obstetrician will request this study when there may be an increased risk of congenital heart disease (which is a birth defect of the heart) in the baby. Reasons include:
The evaluation is typically performed in the second or third trimester and there are times that it is repeated during the pregnancy. Fetal echocardiography helps to identify fetal heart abnormalities prior to birth which allows for better planning for the delivery and for the immediate care of the baby after birth.