Fetal heart program

Our fetal cardiologists diagnose, monitor and treat heart conditions that occur in the fetus. We also work with obstetricians and maternal-fetal medicine doctors to help plan for a safe delivery.

Learn more about the fetal heart conditions we treat.

What is fetal cardiology?

Fetal cardiologists work closely with obstetricians and maternal-fetal specialists. Fetal cardiology includes the identification of fetal cardiac abnormalities. Our fetal heart specialists provide guidance and counseling about your expectations during pregnancy and in the newborn period.

We also facilitate prenatal consultation with pediatric cardiovascular surgeons when surgical repair is expected in the first year after birth.

When needed, we coordinate with neurology specialists to schedule neurological tests and obtain a neurological evaluation.

Patient referrals to Advocate Children’s Heart Institute

You may receive a referral to our fetal cardiology program if you:

• Are pregnant (or want to get pregnant) and:
  • Have a condition such as diabetes or a connective tissue disease
  • Get exposed to chemicals or infection
  • Have a family history of congenital heart disease
• Are carrying a baby that:
  • Might have an unusual heart, according to a routine fetal ultrasound
  • Has an unusual heart rate or rhythm
  • Has a known genetic disorder, or is believed to have one
  • Has another concern with development and needs a heart check

Our approach to fetal cardiology

As part of the fetal heart program, we provide:

• A comprehensive team: Our fetal cardiologists partner with fetal medicine specialists at the Center for Fetal Care, providing all the care you and your baby need.
• Close monitoring: When a fetal cardiac abnormality is detected, our fetal heart specialists begin closely monitoring you to make sure things are progressing smoothly.
• Constant updates: Your peace of mind is our priority. We remain in constant communication from diagnosis through recovery. You’ll always know what is happening with both your and your child’s health.
• Customized plan: Our fetal heart specialists plan treatment around your unique needs. We want you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable about the steps we take. You’ll know exactly what to expect about your child’s health and treatment.

Our services

Our expanded services provided in conjunction with maternal-fetal medicine specialists include:

• 3D and 4D advanced ultrasound
• Amniocentesis
• Consultations with our cardiac genetics program
• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
• Fetal echocardiography
• Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Meet our fetal heart team.