A Doppler ultrasound in pregnancy checks blood flow — to and from your baby, and through the placenta and umbilical cord. Like all ultrasound, it uses sound waves, not radiation, and is safe. It's often used when there are questions about the baby's growth or wellbeing, to check the circulation is healthy.
Key takeaways
- Pregnancy Doppler checks blood flow to the baby, placenta and cord.
- It uses sound waves, not radiation, and is safe.
- It's often used to assess the baby's growth and wellbeing.
- It's painless and part of a normal ultrasound appointment.
A Doppler ultrasound during pregnancy is used to check blood flow — an important sign of how well your baby is being supplied. Like all ultrasound, it uses sound waves rather than radiation, so it’s safe to use in pregnancy.[2]
What it checks
The Doppler technique measures the direction and speed of blood flow, which lets the sonographer assess:[1]
- the flow through the umbilical cord and placenta;
- blood flow to the baby (for example to the brain);
- how the circulation is coping, which is relevant to the baby’s growth and wellbeing.
It’s often added when there’s a question about the baby’s growth, or to monitor a higher-risk pregnancy (for example with high blood pressure or a small baby).
What to expect
A pregnancy Doppler is part of a normal ultrasound appointment — gel and a probe over your abdomen. You may hear the rhythmic sound of blood flow. It’s painless, with no aftercare.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is a Doppler scan safe in pregnancy?
Yes — it’s a form of ultrasound, uses sound waves rather than radiation, and has no known adverse effects.[2]
Why has my doctor asked for a Doppler scan?
Usually to check the blood flow to your baby and through the placenta — helpful for assessing the baby’s growth and wellbeing, especially in a closely monitored pregnancy.[1]
Sources
- RadiologyInfo.org (RSNA & ACR) — General Ultrasound (Doppler) — www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/genus
- RANZCR / InsideRadiology — Ultrasound (Coombs) — www.insideradiology.com.au/ultrasound-hp/
