Fetal Cardiology
Understanding Fetal Cardiology & Prenatal Heart Care
Discovering a heart problem in an unborn baby is frightening for any family. Heart Beats is not a medical provider, however, our goal is to connect families with expert care and supportive resources. In Alberta, fetal cardiology is a collaborative specialty involving obstetricians, maternal fetal medicine specialists and cardiologists. It focuses on diagnosing and planning for congenital heart conditions before a baby is born, typically using a fetal echocardiogram (fetal echo), a type of ultrasound that takes pictures of the unborn baby’s heart. By identifying a heart problem early, families can access appropriate counselling and prepare for delivery at centers equipped to care for cardiac babies.
Please remember: The information below is for general guidance. Only your health‑care team can give you medical advice tailored to your pregnancy.
Trusted Online Resources
Finding trustworthy information online can be challenging. The resources provided are recommended by Alberta health professionals and reputable Canadian organizations. They are not substitutes for medical advice but can help you understand congenital heart disease and connect with support networks.
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Provides information and educational resources for families across Western Canada and links to local support groups.
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The Stollery Congenital Heart Program provides world-class care across western Canada for children and adults with heart conditions.
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Information for families referred to the Stollery Congenital Heart Program when diagnosed before birth
Recommended Books & Publications
Heart Beats encourages families to explore books written for parents of children with congenital heart disease. These resources are meant to help you understand your child’s condition and connect with support networks.
Always use them alongside advice from your care team.
The Parent's Guide to Children's Congenital Heart Defects: What They Are, How to Treat Them, How to Cope with Them
Over thirty experts—cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, nutritionists, counselors, and social workers—explain living with your child’s congenital heart disease in clear, simple language.
Heart Children: A Practical Handbook for Parents of Children with Congenital Heart Problems
Practical advice for caring for babies and children with heart conditions.
The Heart of a Child: What Families Need to Know about Heart Disorders in Children
The first edition of The Heart of a Child was widely praised for helping families understand and cope with heart disorders, and many support organizations and websites now recommend this book as "must have" for families.
Please Note: Heart Beats is not affiliated with Amazon or any other retailer and does not receive commissions from book sales; we include links solely to help families access useful resources.
Need help finding more information?
Heart Beats is here to answer your questions, share trusted resources, and offer a compassionate ear. Reach out today, and we’ll help you navigate every step.
