Diagnostic Testing During Pregnancy

Diagnostic Testing During Pregnancy

You may need tests to diagnose heart disease or check your heart function, such as:

• Electrocardiogram: This test may detect arrhythmias, problems with the conduction electrical system or evidence of past heart problems.
• 24-hour or 48-hour cardiac event monitors: You may need this if you have daily palpitations, fast heart rates or an abnormal heart rhythm.
• Echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart: This test may be combined with a Doppler to study valve flow within the heart. This can assess your heart function.
• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): This test involves placing a probe in your esophagus. It is used to look for infections, blood clots or problems that cannot be well seen with a standard echocardiogram. You have to be sedated for this test.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This test carries the risk of radiation. It is best done after the middle of the second trimester.
• Cardiac catheterization and angioplasty: These tests require X-ray exposure, which is not safe during pregnancy. They are only done when necessary. You will use a shield over your abdomen to protect the fetus.
• Nuclear imaging: This test is contraindicated during pregnancy because nuclear isotopes concentrate in the bladder and have direct exposure to the developing fetus.