Foetal Echocardiography

It is a procedure that uses sound waves to check the heart of a foetus. A foetal echo is useful in finding heart defects before the child's birth. If the defect is detected earlier, healthcare providers may treat the problem before birth, if possible. It also prepares the medical staff and parents for any complications during labour. In some cases, healthcare professionals can advise an early delivery. Foetal Echocardiography is often done in the second trimester if there is a family history of heart issues. There could be many reasons why your doctor could suggest this test. Some reasons can be the following: 

• Already having a child with the heart defect
• A family has a history of genetic heart problems
• Abnormalities on foetal ultrasound
• Pregnancy at an early age 
• There seems to be a genetic issue in the foetus 
• Certain medication that could affect the foetus’s heart
• Drug and alcohol usage during pregnancy
• Health issues like diabetes, phenylketonuria, or lupus
• Infections during pregnancy or have abnormal results in other pregnancy tests

Now, let us understand more about its cost. 

What is the Cost of Foetal Echocardiography in India?

The cost of a Foetal echo can vary from INR 1,300 - INR 6,500 in India. The cost of a foetal echo is approx Rs. 1,300 in Hyderabad. You can find how the cost ranges from city to city here in one table. 

Find out which city and prices are the most suitable for you here. 

Why does the cost of Foetal Echocardiography vary? 

The cost of Foetal Echocardiography can vary from place to place. Moreover, various factors like the location, the laboratory chosen, or the hospital or the healthcare professional you choose can affect the cost of a foetal echo across India. 

What is the procedure for Foetal Echocardiography? 

A foetal echo isn’t usually a risky procedure for the mother or the foetus. For this echo, healthcare professionals use the lowest possible setting of Ultrasound. The procedure can usually take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. A trained paediatric cardiologist, obstetrician, radiologist, or maternal-foetal specialist can conduct the procedure. 

The mother will be asked to lie on a table, and the medical staff will apply a gel to the stomach. Then, they will use a transducer, a device that sends out sound waves. Then, they will move around the device till they get a good image of the foetal heart. The mother may experience some pressure as the transducer moves around the stomach. After this, the foetal echo is complete. Afterwards, they will look at the results and then decide on a future treatment plan.

What is the difference between an Ultrasound and Foetal Echocardiography?

An ultrasound is an anatomy scan. It is a routine procedure during pregnancy. It is usually conducted in an obstetrician’s office to examine every foetal structure. Whereas a foetal echo is conducted to check the foetal heart. A paediatric cardiologist can assess the cardiac structure and function of the foetus in detail. A foetal echo is not a procedure for every pregnancy and is done in certain cases. Whereas ultrasound is normally conducted for almost all pregnancies to monitor the development of the foetus. 

It is important to make the right choice of highly experienced and most-preferred medical professionals for such a crucial procedure. 

You can always visit or contact CARE Hospitals for Foetal Echocardiography, as we have skilled professionals that can help you and give you the care you need and deserve.

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of foetal echocardiography in India?

The cost of fetal echocardiography in India can vary based on factors such as the city, medical facility, and the specific details of the test. On average, it may range from INR 2,000 to INR 8,000 or more.

2. At what week is a fetal echo test done?

A fetal echocardiogram is typically done between 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. This is the period when the baby's heart structures are more developed and can be effectively visualized.

3. What is the difference between ultrasound and fetal echocardiogram?

While a regular ultrasound provides a general view of the baby's development, a fetal echocardiogram specifically focuses on the structure and function of the baby's heart. It provides more detailed information about the heart's chambers, valves, and blood vessels.

4. Is echo safe during pregnancy?

Yes, fetal echocardiography is considered safe during pregnancy. It uses sound waves to create images of the baby's heart without exposing the mother or the baby to ionizing radiation. It is a non-invasive and low-risk procedure.