Color Doppler

Assessment of uteroplacental and fetal blood flow.

Color Doppler ultrasound in pregnancy is a specialized method by which we assess blood flow between the placenta and the baby and in certain fetal blood vessels. It helps in recognizing earlier signs of reduced supply (placental insufficiency), monitoring higher-risk pregnancies and making clear decisions on further follow-up. At Polyclinic Cito we perform Color Doppler precisely, with an understandable interpretation of the findings and recommendations for the next steps.

Page Overview

What is Color Doppler in pregnancy?

Color Doppler is a part of the ultrasound examination that shows the direction and speed of blood flow in the blood vessels in order to assess whether the baby is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients. In pregnancy it is most often used to assess:

  • the flow through the uterine arteries (placental supply)

  • the flow in the umbilical cord (umbilical artery)

  • the flow in certain fetal blood vessels (e.g. the middle cerebral artery) by indication

  • the overall placental function and the baby's adaptation

The Doppler does not “replace” the standard ultrasound of growth and anatomy; it complements it when we want to assess more deeply how the circulation supports fetal growth and well-being.

Note: We always interpret the Doppler finding together with the weeks of pregnancy, fetal growth, the amount of amniotic fluid and your clinical picture (blood pressure, sugar, symptoms).

What Color Doppler can help to assess

  • signs of possibly reduced flow to the placenta or the baby
  • suspected fetal growth restriction (FGR/IUGR)
  • the risk of complications in pregnancies with high blood pressure / pre-eclampsia
  • an assessment of fetal well-being in high-risk pregnancies
  • the need for more frequent follow-ups or referral to the maternity ward (according to findings)

When is a Color Doppler recommended?

It is most often performed in the second and third trimester. In pregnancies that require increased monitoring, i.e. when we want to assess the blood flow to the baby and the function of the placenta in more detail, and when there are suspicions of changes in the growth and supply of the foetus.

Pregnancies with increased risk

  • high blood pressure in pregnancy or suspicion of pre-eclampsia
  • diabetes in pregnancy (depending on control and findings)
  • a previous pregnancy with complications of the baby's growth or blood flow 
  • maternal illnesses that affect circulation 
  • a multiple pregnancy (as indicated)

Suspicion of growth restriction or changes on the ultrasound

  • the baby smaller than expected for the weeks of pregnancy
  • a slowing of growth compared to previous measurements
  • a reduced amount of amniotic fluid (depending on the findings)
  • suspicion of poorer placental function
The gynaecologist's recommendation: If you notice suddenly reduced movements of the baby, bleeding, leakage of amniotic fluid, severe pain or regular contractions, this can be an emergency - contact the emergency service/maternity ward immediately.

What does a Color Doppler examination during pregnancy look like?

Color Doppler is an ultrasound examination (through the abdomen) and looks similar to a standard ultrasound, with an additional flow analysis.

1. A brief conversation

We talk about the weeks of pregnancy and symptoms, and we review previous findings.

2. Standard ultrasound

Ultrasound assessment of fetal growth, the amount of amniotic fluid and the basic parameters of the pregnancy (by indication).

3. Color Doppler measurements

Using sound waves we measure blood flow in selected blood vessels (e.g. the uterine arteries, the umbilical cord, fetal vessels).

4. Interpretation of the findings and the plan

A clear explanation and an agreement on the pace of follow-ups.

Duration of the examination: Most often 10-30 minutes, depending on the indication, the baby's position and the scope of the assessment.
Is it safe? Yes - Color Doppler is a non-invasive ultrasound examination and is considered safe for both mother and baby when it is indicated and properly performed.

How to prepare for a Color Doppler examination?


As a rule no special preparation is needed for this examination. However, our specialists give recommendations that help you come to the examination prepared and without stress. 

  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, light clothing to make it easier to prepare for the examination
  • Documentation: Be sure to bring the findings of previous ultrasound examinations 
  • Diet: You do not need to be fasting unless the doctor has stated otherwise
  • It is recommended to arrive a few minutes early 

Quick questions before your visit: 

  • Is the Color Doppler safe for the baby?
    Yes - it is a non-invasive ultrasound examination, safe for both mother and baby.
  • Do I need to come fasting or drink more fluids?
    No - you can eat and drink as normal. 
  • How long does the examination take?
    10-30 minutes, depending on the baby's position and the scope of the assessment. 
What if the finding is not normal? In that case you have the support of our specialist team, who will recommend further monitoring, additional tests or more frequent follow-ups. 

What do you get from this examination?

The aim of the Doppler is to obtain useful information for safer monitoring of the pregnancy and a clear plan for what comes next.

1
An assessment of blood flow and placental function
We learn whether the baby is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients. 
2
A risk assessment and prioritisation of follow-ups
Whether the pregnancy needs to be monitored more often and at what pace.
3
A monitoring plan and recommendation
A recommendation for follow-ups, an additional ultrasound/CTG, or referral to the maternity ward as needed.

In practice this means

  • an understandable explanation of the findings (what is normal, what is not and why)
  • arranging follow-ups on the basis of findings, not “by default”
  • reducing unnecessary worry when the finding is normal
  • a quick response when the finding calls for further work-up
Precise
focus on flows
Calm
an unhurried examination
Clear
a monitoring plan straight away

Why have the examination at Cito Polyclinic?

The difference is in the details; with an expert team of doctors and modern technology, we approach every examination thoroughly, adapt to you, and give clear recommendations that you can understand and follow.

  • An expert team of doctors with many years of experience is available to you  
  • A clear interpretation and a monitoring plan (check-ups, CTG, ultrasound)
  • A discreet and pleasant environment
  • Advanced ultrasound devices, the GE Voluson series 22

Do you have a finding of a “smaller baby” or are you worried about growth?

Let us know the week of pregnancy and the baby's previous measurements - we will advise you whether a Doppler examination, a growth check or an emergency assessment is needed.

Price of a Colour Doppler ultrasound examination

The price at Cito Polyclinic is 60€ and includes an ultrasound and a Colour Doppler. Additional tests such as CTG, cervicometry or swabs are charged separately, as needed.

You can get the first available appointment straight away by phone on +385 21 457 800 or by sending a short message via the contact form.

Doctors

Our team of expert physicians

Testimonials from our patients

Contact us

Polyclinic Cito
Polyclinic Cito