Impact of the Fetal Echocardiogram on Maternal Depression and Well-Being

Fetal echocardiography allows for prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD). The objective of this study is to assess for the impact of fetal echocardiogram on levels of well-being and depression in pregnant women. Adult pregnant women carrying a fetus < 31-week gestational age were enrolled in the prospective observational study from February 2022 to June 2022. These subjects were split into two cohorts: those with CHD and those without CHD. Surveys were distributed prior to the fetal echocardiogram, six weeks later and six weeks after delivery. These surveys consisted of the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and questions about topics, such as anxiety and social support. Of the 152 subjects enrolled, 14 women had a fetus with CHD and 138 women had a fetus without CHD. Initial EPDS scores were elevated for the study population compared to the general population. Six weeks later, EPDS scores remained elevated. For the post-partum surveys, the EPDS scores were decreased below the rate of the general population for the group without CHD and similar to the general population rate for the CHD group. Anxiety, worry, and guilt remained low for both groups after the initial survey. Counseling from the pediatric cardiologist may help decrease anxiety and worry. Social support, like support groups, may be helpful for women carrying a fetus with CHD.