Heart Defects

How Are Heart Defects Caused?

Most heart problems in babies are due to faulty genes. Other causes can include mothers with diabetes (around 2% chance)

How Are Heart Defects Diagnosed?

Most heart problems in babies can’t be identified till after the birth. Around one quarter can be diagnosed at a routine ultrasound scan, between the eighteenth and twentieth week of pregnancy.

Ultrasound equipment will examine the tiny cardiac structures. Movement of red blood cells can highlight areas of abnormal blood flow that may indicated circulation problems.

Which Babies Are At Risk?

Most babies born with heart problems don't come from high-risk groups. This is a rare, almost unpredictable condition and there are only small numbers of high-risk people in the population.

My Baby Has Been Diagnosed With A Heart Defect. Will He Require Special Care?

It depends on the specific heart condition. Your doctor will be able to provide guidance and advice.