A recent study led by Amsterdam UMC, in collaboration with UMC Groningen and 17 other Dutch hospitals, highlights the value of Doppler ultrasound in monitoring small unborn babies. Published in the British Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, the study demonstrates how Doppler ultrasound, which assesses blood flow in the umbilical cord and the baby’s brain, can effectively identify placental issues. Around 10% of unborn babies are considered small for their gestational age. While many are healthy and require no intervention, those with malfunctioning placentas face higher risks of oxygen deficiency and other health complications, sometimes necessitating early delivery.
Doppler ultrasounds enhance traditional growth measurements by evaluating blood vessel resistance in the umbilical cord and brain. When the placenta functions poorly, blood supply to the brain often increases as a protective mechanism, signaling potential health risks. This advanced detection helps differentiate between healthy small babies and those requiring closer monitoring, reducing unnecessary interventions.
The study also explored the timing of delivery for these pregnancies. Inducing labor before 37 weeks did not improve outcomes, reinforcing the importance of allowing babies to remain in the womb unless risks escalate. This approach ensures the best possible outcomes by avoiding premature interventions while safeguarding against complications.
Despite its proven utility, Doppler ultrasounds are not yet universally adopted. According to Wessel Ganzevoort, associate professor of obstetrics and study leader, and Mauritia Marijnen, the study’s first author, the findings underscore the added value of Doppler ultrasounds in managing pregnancies involving undersized babies. Incorporating this tool into care plans could help detect high-risk pregnancies more effectively, minimize invasive monitoring for healthy cases, and increase the likelihood of natural deliveries. This advancement promises better care for both mothers and babies, ensuring safer childbirth experiences.
