Fetal echochardiogram?

Luv2teach719

Quick question--do you get sent for a fetal echocardiogram just because you have gestational diabetes?  Thanks!

Brewtowngrl

We didn't.  I am guessing something else is concerning the doc to be sent for one. 

Amy&Steve0421

No - not normally.  I'll be having one - but it is due to a family history of congenital heart defects. 

mynxx321

I got sent for a level 2 ultrasound and the tech and peri at that appointment were shocked that they hadn't scheduled a fetal echo as well.  My OB thought it was included in the level 2.  Because everything looked good with all the views already, we decided it wasn't worth it to go for the echo.  She also said that the baby would have it again either way (I'm guessing she meant after birth) no matter what was found.  I have type 2 diabetes, so there was a bit more risk for heart defects than with just GD.

P.S.  The regular 20 wk ultrasound and the level 2 showed all four chambers of the heart in one shot, which was the strongest sign of no defects to her.  I don't have any experience if this has been the case for other people and defects were found after the birth anyway.

smartsweetpea

I am scheduled for that, too...not only due to the GD, but also due to my age...just turned 40.  =(  I amhoping it is reassuring and trying not to get worked up about it, as my appt is a few weeks away.

michelle

Kroschka

My doctor schedules fetal echocardiograms for any woman who has gestational diabetes as a precaution.  Good luck! 

tmpsoutherngrl@yahoo.com

I have had three so far. I guess my doc did it as a precaution. LO heart is ok. She did have some thickening of her walls and a couple tiny holes. My last visit her heart walls are normal. I have kept my GD under control so she should be fine when I deliver. LO does have a echo scheduled after birth to make sure her holes have closed.