What is Umbilical Artery Doppler Velocimetry

Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry is a test that may be done during pregnancy to check that your developing baby (fetus) is healthy. In this test, sound waves are used to measure the flow of blood between you and your baby. This test measures:

• The amount of blood flow through the cord that attaches your baby to your womb (umbilical cord).
• The speed of the blood flow.

You may need to have this test to monitor your baby’s health if you have a high-risk pregnancy. You may also need the test if your baby is smaller than normal. In that case, the test may be done to check for a condition that causes babies to grow at a rate that is slower than normal (intrauterine growth restriction, or IUGR).

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.
• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.
• Any blood disorders you have.
• Any surgeries you have had.
• Any medical conditions you have.

What are the risks?

There are no risks to you or your baby from this test.

What happens before the procedure?

• Ask your health care provider about changing or stopping your regular medicines. Do not take medicines that may increase or decrease the baby’s heart rate or movements.
• Eat a full meal at least 2 hours before the test.

What happens during the procedure?

• You will recline or lie down on your back for this test.
• A technician will put a clear gel on your abdomen. The gel will help produce clear images.
• The technician will move a handheld device (transducer) back and forth over your abdomen. This will not be painful.
• The transducer will send sound waves into your womb. The sound waves will be used to measure the speed of blood flowing through your umbilical artery. A moving image of the artery will be displayed on a computer screen.
• When the procedure is over, the gel will be cleaned from your abdomen.

What happens after the procedure?

• Your health care provider will discuss the results of testing and make a plan that is right for you and your baby.
• Unless told otherwise by your health care provider, you may go home right after the procedure and return to your usual activities.

Summary

• Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry is a test that may be done during pregnancy to check that your developing baby (fetus) is healthy.
• In this test, sound waves are used to measure the flow of blood between you and your baby.
• The technician will move a handheld device (transducer) back and forth over your abdomen. This will not be painful.
• Your health care provider will discuss the results of testing and make a plan that is right for you and your baby.