the fetal cardiac clinic

Pregnant woman smiling.

Newborn baby in recovery.

what is a fetal echocardiogram?

A non-invasive ultrasound study of the heart of a fetus. It is harmless and painless to the patient and fetus.

why a fetal echocardiogram?

Allow for diagnosis of fetal congenital heart conditions, such as structural heart defects and abnormal fetal heart rhythms.

Pregnant mother and her daughter spending time together at home

why a fetal echocardiogram?

learn more
Mother hugging her baby.

preparation before your visit

  • Please complete the intake form and submit online.
  • Please allow 2 hours for your appointment. The scanning of the fetal heart will take 40 minutes to 1 hour and the consultation with one of our pediatric cardiologists will take additional time.

during your visit

  • The fetal echocardiogram scanning will be performed by an ICAEL-certified sonographer.
  • Consultations with one of our pediatric cardiologists include:
    • Review of the findings of the echocardiogram.
    • Counseling regarding treatment options.
    • Recommendations for delivery, care of baby after delivery and any medications and/or surgical interventions.
One of Dayton Children’s care centers
One of Dayton Children’s care centers

post visit

  • All recommendations for subsequent care of the the fetus and post-natal care are discussed and coordinated with your obstetrician and/or perinatologist and delivery hospital neonatologist.
  • If necessary, arrangements are made for you to meet the medical/surgical staff that will provide necessary cardiac care for your baby.
  • After your initial echocardiogram visit, you may need to return for follow up fetal echocardiograms.

connect with a pediatric cardiologist

Whether your child is showing signs of a heart condition or you’re seeking preventive care due to family history, Dayton Children’s is here to help. As your trusted partner in pediatric care, our cardiology team supports your family every step of the way—from testing to diagnosis to treatment—with expert, personalized care tailored to your child’s needs.

Baby’s feet in an incubator.