OBSTETRIC FETAL DOPPLER

Obstetric Fetal Doppler Overview

A specific type of ultrasound scan called the Obstetric Foetal Doppler assesses blood flow in the umbilical cord, placenta, and vessels of the foetus. This test is used to keep track of foetal well-being during high-risk pregnancies. It evaluates the circulation using Doppler ultrasound technology and looks for abnormalities that could impact foetal well-being. 

What is Obstetric Foetal Doppler? 

With the use of sound waves, Obstetric Foetal Doppler measures blood flow in the foetus and placental’s circulatory system. Movement during imaging helps to monitor the supply of oxygen to the foetus, as well as identify any concerning issues that could hinder the development of the foetus. 

Types of Obstetric Foetal Doppler 

• Doppler of the Umbilical Artery: Evaluates the blood perfusion in the umbilical cord 
• Doppler of Middle Cerebral Artery: Evaluates brain blood flow of the foetus 
• Doppler of Ductus Venosus: Evaluates blood flow from the vein to the heart 

List of Parameters Considered During Obstetric Foetal Doppler

• Doppler ultrasound of the umbilical artery resistance index 
• Velocity of blood flow in vessels of the foetus 
• Efficiency of blood circulation towards the placenta 
• Evidence of foetus’ hypoxia or stress 

Reasons for Taking an Obstetric Foetal Doppler

• To determine the health of the foetus in complicated pregnancies 
• Diagnosis of placental insufficiency 
• Monitoring oxygen delivery to the foetus 
• Detection of abnormal foetal growth 

When and Who Needs an Obstetric Foetal Doppler? 

Indications 

• Suspected foetal growth restriction (IUGR) 
• Maternal conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or preeclampsia 
• Decreased foetal movements 
• Observing antepartum foetal surveillance for high-risk pregnancies 
• Evaluation of twin or multiple pregnancies 

Patient Demographics 

• Pregnant ladies who have risk factors for complications to the foetus 
• Women with atypical manifestations of pregnancy 
• Patients with past histories of pregnancy complications 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Does not involve any surgical procedure nor the use of radiation. 
• Identifying severe foetal distress well in advance. 
• Assist in managing the pregnancy appropriately. 
• Enabling continuous intrauterine foetal assessment. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Obstetric Foetal Doppler

• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) 
• Complications of Preeclampsia 
• Placental Deficiency 
• Foetal Amenia 

Preparing for Obstetric Foetal Doppler

• No specific preparation steps are needed. 
• Ensure that the mother is rested before the examination. 

Pre-requisites 

• In general, there are no pre-requisites. 
• The patient must have a full bladder for optimal imaging. 

Best Time to Take the Obstetric Foetal Doppler 

• Usually in the 2nd and 3rd trimester according to medical need. 

Eligibility 

• It is safe for all pregnant women. 

Procedure for Taking an Obstetric Foetal Doppler 

• The patient reclines on a consultation couch. 
• A medium made of water is placed on the surface of the stomach. 
• The ultrasound sensor is positioned on the surface to evaluate the blood streams. 
• Live visuals for the image and graphs will be taken. 
• The procedure lasts between twenty to thirty minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• The patient should tell the technician any previous complications related to their pregnancy.