Maternal ECHO

A maternal echo is a transthoracic echocardiogram performed on a pregnant woman to evaluate heart structure and function. It uses safe ultrasound to assess chamber size, valve function, ejection fraction, and pulmonary pressures. Indicated for pre-existing heart disease or new cardiac symptoms (dyspnea, chest pain, syncope) to guide treatment and delivery planning. It’s noninvasive and safe during pregnancy.

Costs vary by country, facility and whether public insurance covers it. In publicly funded systems it’s usually free with referral; privately expect roughly £100–£400 in the UK, ₹1,000–5,000 in India, and $200–$1,000+ in the US (higher if hospital billing applies). Final price depends on type (maternal vs fetal echo), location, and insurance—confirm fees with your provider.

A maternal ultrasound (obstetric scan) is a noninvasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the fetus, placenta and amniotic fluid. It's used to confirm pregnancy and dating, assess fetal growth and anatomy, detect anomalies, check placenta location and fetal position, and evaluate blood flow with Doppler. Routine scans occur in early and mid-pregnancy and are considered safe without ionizing radiation.

An ECG and echocardiogram in pregnancy evaluate maternal heart rhythm and function to detect pre‑existing or new problems (arrhythmias, valvular disease, cardiomyopathy) that can worsen with pregnancy. They guide risk assessment and management during pregnancy and delivery, monitor known cardiac conditions, and provide a noninvasive baseline for prompt treatment if chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, or syncope occur.

An echocardiogram assesses heart structure and function. It's done to evaluate valve disease, measure pumping ability (ejection fraction), detect cardiomyopathy, congenital defects, pericardial effusion or intracardiac clots, and to investigate symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or palpitations. Results guide diagnosis, treatment decisions and monitoring of heart conditions or response to therapy.

A fetal echocardiogram usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Some appointments can run up to 60 to 90 minutes if the baby’s position is awkward or extra images are required. Expect extra time for registration, positioning, and a discussion of results with the specialist. Bring prior scans or medical records; follow-up may be scheduled if more detailed assessment is needed.