What is Fetal Arrhythmia? Is Your Unborn Baby's Heart in Danger?

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Anurag Mahagaonkar , Neonatologist

Fetal arrhythmia (irregular fetal heartbeat) is a condition where a baby's heartbeat becomes irregular during pregnancy. This can mean the heart beats too fast, too slow, or skip beats. It usually affects the developing heart in the womb. Early detection and regular monitoring are important to keep both mother and baby safe.

What are the Fetal Arrhythmia Symptoms and Warning Signs?

In many cases, fetal arrhythmia is first noticed during a routine prenatal checkup.

Some mothers may not feel any symptoms, while others might notice changes.

Common Symptoms of Fetal Arrhythmia

Irregular heartbeat was heard during prenatal exams
Baby's heart rate seems too fast or too slow
Skipped beats during fetal monitoring

Severe Symptoms of Fetal Arrhythmia

Sudden changes in fetal movement
Baby moving less than usual
Dizziness or lightheadedness in the mother
Chest pain or shortness of breath

Tip: If you feel any unusual symptoms or if your baby's movements slow down, contact your doctor immediately.

What are the Different Types of Fetal Arrhythmia?

There are several types of fetal arrhythmia, each with different causes and effects.

They are usually identified based on how fast or irregular the heartbeat is.

Fetal Arrhythmia Types

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): A fast heartbeat from the upper heart chambers
Atrial Flutter: Very fast, irregular heartbeats in the atria
Ventricular Tachycardia: A Fast heartbeat from the lower heart chambers
Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs): Early, extra beats from the atria
Bradycardia: Slower-than-normal heartbeat

Each type may need different levels of care or treatment.

What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Fetal Arrhythmia?

Fetal arrhythmia can happen for many reasons.

Some are related to the baby's heart, while others are linked to the mother's health or lifestyle.

Fetal Arrhythmia Causes

Problems in the baby's heart structure
Maternal conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
Certain medicines taken during pregnancy
Infections during pregnancy (e.g., CMV, parvovirus B19)
Genetic conditions like Long QT syndrome

Fetal Arrhythmia Risk Factors

Older maternal age
Use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs
Autoimmune diseases in the mother
Family history of heart rhythm problems
Past pregnancy with fetal arrhythmia

Knowing these risks early can help with better planning and care.

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How is Fetal Arrhythmia Diagnosed?

Doctors use advanced tools to monitor the baby's heartbeat and check for any irregularities in the rhythm.

These tests are, of course, safe for both mother and baby.

Diagnostic Methods

Fetal Echocardiography: Looks at the baby's heart structure
Doppler Ultrasound: Checks blood flow and heart rhythm
Fetal ECG: Measures the heart's electrical signals through the abdomen
Fetal Magnetocardiography (fMCG): Detects magnetic signals from the baby's heart
Non-Stress Test (NST): Monitors how the baby's heart reacts to movement

At Medicover Hospitals, our fetal medicine specialists use safe, modern technology to detect problems early and guide families through every step of care.

What are the Treatment Options for Fetal Arrhythmia?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the heartbeat issue.

Some cases get better on their own. Others may need careful medical support.

Medicover's Treatment Approach

Medication for the Baby: Doctors may give antiarrhythmic drugs to help control the baby's heartbeat.
Medicines for the Mother: Some medicines are given to the mother. These cross the placenta and treat the baby's heart rhythm.
Fetal Cardiac Procedures: In rare and serious cases, procedures like placing a fetal pacemaker may be needed.
Close Monitoring: Regular tests, such as fetal echocardiograms and heart monitoring, help track the baby's condition.

Every treatment plan is personalised. At Medicover, we support both the mother and baby every step of the way.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help right away if you notice:

A sudden drop in fetal movement
Dizziness, chest pain, or trouble breathing
History of fetal arrhythmia in past pregnancies
Any unusual results during prenatal check-ups

High-risk pregnancies need extra care to avoid complications.

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What is the Recovery Process After Fetal Arrhythmia Treatment?

Recovery is based on what caused the arrhythmia and how well the baby responds to treatment.

Steps in Recovery

Regular Checkups: Subsequent scans and monitoring of the baby's heart.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips: Eat well, manage stress, and avoid harmful substances.
Delivery Planning: Some babies need special care at birth. Doctors will plan with the cardiology and neonatal teams.
Long-Term Outlook: Most fetal arrhythmias resolve without long-term issues, particularly if they are addressed promptly.

With Medicover, you're not alone on your journey - we support you from diagnosis to delivery, and beyond.

What Precautions Can Help Prevent Fetal Arrhythmia?

Some cases can't be prevented, but you can reduce the risk with good prenatal care.

Fetal Arrhythmia Prevention Tips

Attend all prenatal checkups
Address health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure
Do not drink, smoke or take dangerous drugs
Keep up with vaccines and recommended screenings

Fetal Arrhythmia Complications

If left untreated, serious arrhythmias can lead to:

Heart failure or fluid buildup in the fetus (hydrops)
Early labor or emergency delivery
The need for intensive newborn care

Early care and monitoring help avoid these risks.

Our Experience Treating Fetal Arrhythmia

At Medicover Hospitals, we offer expert care for unborn babies with heart conditions. Our team comprises fetal medicine specialists, cardiologists, and neonatal experts. Using the latest tools and proven treatments, we guide families through every stage of care. Our goal is to protect your pregnancy and give your baby a strong, healthy start.

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