Taking multiple scans and tests during pregnancy is very common. These scans allow doctors to monitor the baby closely to ensure everything is on track. With the development of technology today, a pregnant woman can get a 2D, 3D, or even 4D ultrasound of her fetus. Have you heard of the Doppler Ultrasound Scan? Do you know how it differs from other scans and why doctors suggest it?
Doppler scan during pregnancy is a type of ultrasound that assess the blood flow. In this scan, the medical professional will check the blood flow through the placenta, umbilical cord and different parts of the baby's body using sound waves. The scan measures how much blood flows through the baby's body. This helps in knowing if the baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrient supply to various parts of their body.
You can get a Doppler ultrasound when you get any regular pregnancy ultrasound. The same machine will be used for both scans. Most ultrasound machines will have a Doppler function, so it is no hassle for the mother or the medical professional taking the scan.
In every pregnancy , the doctor will suggest a Doppler ultrasound around the 11th -14th week to ensure everything is fine. Infact Doppler is done in all the scans in particular the 3rd trimester
In case of complications, some doctors may also use the Doppler ultrasound during delivery to ensure everything is progressing smoothly and the baby is not in any danger. It can also alert when the baby is in distress.
The different types of Doppler Ultrasound are:
● Colour Doppler – The computer shows the sound waves in different colours to differentiate the direction of blood flow in the baby's body and umbilical cord.
● Spectral Doppler – The blood flow will be graphically represented over time.
● Power Doppler – The use Radiologist or Fetal Medicine Specialist uses this type of Doppler to study the blood flow inside the organs. It does not show the direction of the blood flow but the presence of blood flow and very slow blood flow.
Taking a Doppler ultrasound scan during pregnancy can help identify the following:
● Increased or reduce blood supply to the fetus
● Severity of Fetal growth restriction if any
● Check the blood supply to various organs
● Tumors in blood vessels.
A Doppler ultrasound scan is like any other scan. So, there is little to prepare for. Sometimes, you may be required to do the following before your scan.
Since coffee or tea will narrow down the blood vessels, they will also ask you to refrain from using any coffee or tea for at least 2 hours before the scan.
The Doppler ultrasound is a simple, non-invasive scan done externally. The Radiologist or Fetal medicine specialist applies gel on the tummy and gently moves the device on the stomach to check the baby. They will move the transducer probe to various parts of the tummy, depending on what they are looking for and how well the baby's position facilitates the scan.
The entire scanning may take 20 to 60 minutes. Once it is done, the patient can gently wipe off the gel on their tummy, get dressed and leave.
The test results may be ready within 15-30 minutes or at the most 60 minutes , depending on the facility. Different centres have different time frames.
Yes, it is perfectly safe. It is an external scan and uses the same machine and method as any other pregnancy ultrasound. The Radiologist or Fetal medicine specialist may require you to lie on your back or on your side, depending on the position of the baby and the umbilical cord. In some cases, they may even ask you to sit up. This is not an invasive procedure, so there is nothing to worry about. However Doppler is not done before 10 weeks due to a theoretical risk of harm to the embryo
A Doppler scan during pregnancy is not compulsory but is highly advisable, especially if you are in the high-risk category. A Doppler scan provides crucial information about the blood flow in the placenta and through the baby's body. It can be easier for your doctor to diagnose any issues with the baby's development with such important information.
A Doppler ultrasound measures the blood flow through the placenta, umbilical cord and different parts of the baby's body.
The Doppler test shows how much blood flows through the placenta and umbilical cord to various parts of the baby's body. This helps to know if different parts of the baby's body are getting enough oxygen and nutrients.
A Fetal Doppler ultrasound checks for proper blood flow throughout the fetus' body. The baby gets oxygen and nutrients for development through the blood; hence, good blood flow is essential for a healthy baby.
The Doppler ultrasound scan may take 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the baby's position. If the Radiologist or Fetal Medicine specialist can get all the images and measurements quickly, it will not take much time. If the baby's position is not suitable for taking the readings, they may try to nudge the baby to move or ask you to shift positions for a better angle.
