A healthy heart is the foundation of life. During pregnancy, one of the most advanced ways to assess your baby’s heart development is through a Fetal Echo (Fetal Echocardiography). This specialized ultrasound allows doctors to study the structure and function of the unborn baby’s heart in detail.
At Aashakiran IVF Pvt. Ltd. – North India’s most trusted and fastest-growing IVF chain, our expert team including Dr. Asmita Mahla (Medical Director, 20+ years experience), Dr. Jagjit Singh (Executive Director), and Dr. Shivani (Obs & Gynae) provide advanced fetal echo screening for high-risk pregnancies and IVF conceptions to ensure the best possible outcomes.
🩺 What is a Fetal Echo?
A Fetal Echo is a detailed ultrasound test performed between 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. It uses sound waves to examine:
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The structure of the fetal heart (chambers, valves, vessels).
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The blood flow pattern through the heart.
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The functioning of the heart muscle.
This test helps in the early detection of congenital heart defects (CHDs), which are among the most common birth abnormalities.
🔎 Why is Fetal Echo Important?
While a routine pregnancy ultrasound shows the baby’s overall growth, a fetal echo gives a much deeper view of the heart.
It helps to:
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Detect structural heart defects.
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Monitor heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias).
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Plan delivery and treatment if a heart defect is found.
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Reassure parents when results are normal.
⚠️ Who Needs a Fetal Echo?
Your doctor may recommend a fetal echo if:
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IVF pregnancy (slightly higher risk of anomalies).
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Family history of congenital heart disease.
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Mother has medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disease, lupus, or epilepsy.
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Abnormal ultrasound findings on routine scan.
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Mother takes certain medications (e.g., anti-seizure, blood thinners).
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Multiple pregnancy (twins/triplets).
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History of previous pregnancy with heart defect.
🧪 How is Fetal Echo Done?
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It is a non-invasive ultrasound – safe for both mother and baby.
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Conducted by a fetal medicine specialist or cardiologist.
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Takes about 30–45 minutes.
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No injections, radiation, or pain involved.
✅ Benefits of Fetal Echo
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Early detection of heart defects.
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Better pregnancy management with timely treatment planning.
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Counseling and support for parents.
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Safer delivery planning (choosing the right hospital with NICU & pediatric cardiac support).
❓ FAQs on Fetal Echo
Q1. Is fetal echo safe during pregnancy?
Yes, it is completely safe. It uses ultrasound waves, not radiation.
Q2. When is the best time for fetal echo?
Usually between 18–24 weeks, but it can be done earlier or later if needed.
Q3. What if my baby’s fetal echo is abnormal?
Don’t panic. Many heart problems can be managed with proper planning, surgery, or treatment after birth. At Aashakiran IVF, we provide counseling and referral to specialized centers if required.
Q4. Do all IVF pregnancies need fetal echo?
Not always, but it is highly recommended as IVF is considered a high-risk pregnancy and extra screening ensures safety.
💜 Aashakiran IVF – Caring for Every Beat of Life
At Aashakiran IVF Pvt. Ltd., we believe every baby deserves the best start in life. Our advanced fetal medicine and high-risk pregnancy care ensure that conditions like congenital heart defects are detected early, giving families hope and confidence.
📍 Visit us at Kharar | Ludhiana | Amritsar | Bathinda
📞 Call: 872-8080-222 for appointments
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🌐 Learn more: www.aashakiranivf.com
✨ At Aashakiran IVF, your baby’s heartbeat is our priority – because every little heart deserves the best care.
