In aproximately 1 every 100 pregnancies, the baby might have a heart condition which would require specialist care or surgery.
The risk is a little higher if either parent or one of their previous children had a heart problem at birth. The risk is also a little higher if the mother suffers from certain medical conditions.
What does the Fetal cardiac scan involve?
The scan usually takes about 20 minutes, although it can occasionally take longer. The scan will look at the baby's heart to determine whether all its chambers and blood vessels are normally formed and whether they are functioning well. This scan will identify the majority of major heart problems which would require surgery in the first year of life. Some heart problems (for instance small holes between the chambers) sometimes may not be visible until after the baby's birth.
You will get a report immediately after the scan and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions.