OBSTETRIC FOETAL DOPPLER ULTRASOUND SCAN
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Purpose of the scan
- Checks how well blood is moving through the umbilical cord, brain, and other vital vessels
- Identifies early signs of foetal distress or growth problems
- Guides timely medical decisions to protect both mother and baby
Local availability at Cadabams Diagnostics
Our centres in Bangalore and Hyderabad are open 7 days a week, with same-day appointments and radiologists who specialise in maternal–foetal imaging.
Types of Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
Colour Doppler
Visualises blood vessels in red and blue to see flow direction instantly.
Pulsed-wave Doppler
Measures exact speed at a single point—ideal for umbilical and cerebral vessels.
Power Doppler
Higher sensitivity for tiny vessels; useful when flow is very low.
List of Parameters
| Parameter | What It Shows | Normal Range (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Umbilical artery S/D ratio | Placental resistance | <3.0 after 30 weeks |
| Middle cerebral artery PI | Brain blood flow | 1.5–2.0 |
| Uterine artery RI | Blood supply to placenta | <0.58 |
| Ductus venosus flow | Heart function and oxygen return | Continuous forward flow |
Why This Test
- Suspected foetal growth restriction (FGR)
- Hypertensive disorders such as pre-eclampsia
- Decreased foetal movements or abnormal heart-rate patterns
When to Take Test
Recommended weeks of pregnancy
- First scan: 24–28 weeks for low-risk pregnancies
- Follow-up: 28–40 weeks if any concern arises
Risk factors requiring Doppler
- Maternal high blood pressure or diabetes
- Previous small-for-dates baby
- Decreased foetal movements
- Abnormal fundal height or standard ultrasound findings
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
- Early detection of complications before symptoms appear
- Completely non-invasive and painless—no needles or sedation
- Helps doctors decide on timely interventions like medication, early delivery, or closer monitoring
Illnesses Diagnosed with Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
- Intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR)
- Placental insufficiency
- Foetal anaemia (linked to Rhesus disease or infections)
Preparing for test
- Clothing: Wear a two-piece outfit so the abdomen can be easily exposed.
- Bladder: A partially full bladder improves image quality; drink 500 ml water 30 minutes before.
- What to bring: Doctor’s referral, previous scan reports, and your pregnancy file.
Pre-requisites for Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
- Valid doctor referral note
- Available previous pregnancy records for comparison.
Best Time to Take the Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
- Ideal gestational age: 24–40 weeks
- High-risk mums may need scans every 2–4 weeks as advised by the obstetrician.
Eligibility
- All pregnant women under obstetrician guidance
- High-risk pregnancy prioritisation—earlier and more frequent scans when needed.
Procedure for Taking an Obstetric Foetal Doppler Ultrasound Scan
- Check-in: Arrive 10 minutes early; complete a short consent form.
- Positioning: Lie comfortably on the scan bed; a warm gel is applied.
- Scan duration: 15–30 minutes, depending on foetal cooperation.
- Post-scan: Wipe off gel, receive a thermal image, and schedule your next appointment if required.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform the technician about any allergies to ultrasound gel.
- Disclose implantable devices (e.g., insulin pump) that may interfere.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| High S/D ratio in umbilical artery | Increased resistance in placenta | Possible IUGR or placental insufficiency |
| Low MCA PI | Brain sparing effect | Body is diverting blood to vital organs; may need early delivery |
| Absent/reversed ductus venosus flow | Severe heart strain | Urgent specialist review required |
| Normal parameters | All indices within range | Reassuring; continue routine care |
Risks & Limitations
Safety profile
- No radiation; uses only sound waves
- Extensive studies show no harm to mother or baby
Limitations in detection
- May miss subtle changes in very early disease
- Quality depends on foetal position and maternal body habitus
FAQs
Is the Doppler scan safe for my baby?
Yes. Multiple international guidelines confirm no known risks from sound-wave technology.
How long does the scan take?
Most sessions last 15–30 minutes, but allow extra time if baby is sleeping or in an awkward position.
Do I need to fast before the scan?
No fasting is required; a light snack can even encourage foetal movement for clearer images.
When will I get the report?
Preliminary findings are discussed on the spot; the final report is emailed or ready for pickup within 24 hours.
Can I bring a family member?
Absolutely. One adult is welcome in the scan room to share the moment and support you.