Uterine artery Doppler assessment in pregnancy

The prediction of major obstetric syndromes has driven advancements in non-invasive prenatal assessment. Among these, Doppler ultrasound has notably improved the detection of obstetric pathologies. By evaluating uteroplacental circulation, Doppler studies can identify both physiological and pathophysiological changes throughout pregnancy, providing crucial insights into placental insufficiency. This condition affects up to 15% of pregnancies and contributes to preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm delivery, leading causes of preventable perinatal morbidity and mortality. Uterine artery Doppler, ideally performed in the first trimester, should be incorporated into a competing risks algorithm to identify pregnant women at high risk for preeclampsia, enabling early prevention with acetylsalicylic acid, ideally before 16 weeks. The assessment should be performed transabdominally, using standardized techniques and the mean pulsatility index, and should be conducted by trained and audited professionals.