Obstetric with Doppler
What is a Doppler exam?
Doppler ultrasound is a technology that assesses blood flow in the mother's and baby's arteries. It allows real-time analysis of blood circulation, providing valuable information about the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between the mother and the baby.
What are the main indications?
Monitoring of pregnancies with Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) - checking if the baby is receiving the necessary oxygen and nutrients. This helps to determine if there is a need for interventions or even early delivery.
Identification of 60-70% the pregnant women at increased risk of developing
preeclampsia
Allows tracking of fetal anemia through the study of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) - a condition that can occur, for example, in cases of blood incompatibility (Rh) or in Fetal-Fetal Transfusion syndromes in twins.
When should it be done?
It is usually requested after 28 weeks, when the baby is already considered viable (more chances of surviving birth).
It can be requested anotes of the 28 weeks in specific situations, such as a history of preeclampsia, growth restriction, or other risk conditions.
Why take the exam?
Because he is capable of detecting signs of fetal distress or growth restriction. Helps identify risks of preeclampsia so that interventions can be made. Provides essential information to decide the ideal time for delivery. Detects conditions early, allowing interventions that save lives.
How is it made?
Performed with a conventional ultrasound, but with the Doppler function activated to analyze the flow within the arteries. The doctor assesses the blood flow between the mother and the baby. As uterine arteries They assess the risk of preeclampsia and whether the maternal blood is having any difficulty reaching the placenta. A umbilical artery indicates whether the placenta is successfully sending oxygen and nutrients to the baby. A middle cerebral artery indicates whether the baby's blood is well oxygenated and free of anemia.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Is the exam mandatory in all pregnancies?
No, but it is highly recommended in high-risk pregnancies or when there are signs of complications. It is recommended that it be performed at least once in the 3rd trimester, even in normal pregnancies.
Do I need to prepare for the exam?
No, Doppler ultrasound does not require any special preparation.
Does it replace the morphological ultrasound?
No, each exam has different purposes. Doppler assesses blood flow, while morphological examines the baby's anatomy. The Doppler of the uterine arteries can be performed together with the morphological scan.
Can it be done more than once during pregnancy?
Yes, it can be repeated as needed by the doctor to monitor the progression of the pregnancy.
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