Fetal Heart Program

The fetal heart program at University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital works closely with families whose children have been diagnosed with a heart defect before birth. Our team coordinates services from prenatal evaluation, initial diagnosis, and education, to delivery, cardiac surgery, and ongoing care. Our goal is to provide a smooth transition from pregnancy to newborn care.

As part of Iowa’s only comprehensive congenital heart disease program, our team provides specialized care for both mother and baby during pregnancy and after delivery. Once a heart defect is diagnosed, pediatric heart doctors, pediatric heart surgeons, and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics obstetricians work together to plan the best delivery and care options for you and your baby.

Fetal Echocardiograms

A fetal echocardiogram is a special test performed during the pregnancy to look at the position, size, structure, function, and rhythm of an unborn baby’s heart. This test can lead to early diagnosis of congenital heart disease. Research shows that early detection of fetal congenital heart disease improves outcomes for your baby due to immediate access to medical and surgical care (if needed) after birth.

Fetal echocardiograms are recommended if any of the following indicators are found:

• Family history of congenital heart disease
• Abnormal general fetal ultrasound suggesting heart disease or rhythm abnormality
• Other birth defect(s)
• Increased nuchal translucency
• Abnormal maternal serum screening
• Maternal diseases such as diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), lupus, or Sjogren’s syndrome
• Certain maternal medications