Echogenic Bowel in Pregnancy | What It Means & What to Expect | source NHS


Echogenic Bowel in Pregnancy: What It Means & What to Expect 🤰🩺

What is Echogenic Bowel?

  • Echogenic bowel is seen in less than 1% of pregnancies.
  • In over 90% of cases, it is a variation of normal and often resolves during pregnancy.
  • In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

Possible Causes of Echogenic Bowel

Some known causes include:

  • Swallowed blood: If the baby has swallowed blood due to bleeding in the womb.
  • Cystic fibrosis (CF): A genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system after birth.
  • Infections: Certain infections, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), can cross the placenta.
  • Genetic conditions: Including Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities.
  • Bowel damage: Twists in the bowel or reduced blood supply can lead to echogenicity.
  • Placental blood flow issues: Reduced blood flow to the placenta may lead to growth restriction in the baby.

Further Management & Next Steps

The next steps will depend on the suspected cause. You will be referred to a specialist doctor who will:
✔️ Perform a detailed scan to reconfirm findings and check for other anomalies.
✔️ Offer blood tests to rule out infections.
✔️ Offer genetic testing for both parents to check for cystic fibrosis.
✔️ Offer an amniocentesis (needle test) to check for chromosomal and genetic conditions.

What If a Problem is Found?

  • If an underlying condition is identified, your doctor will discuss all possible options, including continuing or not continuing the pregnancy.
  • If the echogenic bowel is isolated (with no other problems), continuing the pregnancy is usually recommended.

Monitoring During Pregnancy

  • You will receive care in a consultant-led unit with regular monitoring.
  • Serial ultrasounds will check if the bowel improves and ensure the baby is growing well.
  • There is a small risk of growth restriction, so close follow-up is essential.

Delivery & Newborn Care

  • The goal will be a vaginal delivery at term in a consultant-led unit.
  • A neonatal specialist will be present at birth.
  • After delivery, the baby will undergo a detailed examination by a specialist doctor.

Reassurance for Parents ❤️

  • Do not blame yourself. This condition can happen without any known cause.
  • Many babies with echogenic bowel are born completely healthy.
  • Your medical team will guide you every step of the way to ensure the best care for your baby.

💬 If you have concerns, speak to your doctor for personalized guidance. You’re not alone in this journey! 🤰👶💖


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