Researchers have developed a soft, wearable ultrasound patch that can continuously monitor a fetus in the womb [1].
This technology aims to provide a critical safety net for high-risk pregnancies by enabling early detection of complications and helping to prevent stillbirths [4, 5].
Developed at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, the device, referred to as the "UPatch" or "baby-bump monitor," is currently a proof-of-concept [1, 3]. The project involved collaborations between UC San Diego, Stanford Medicine, and Oxford University, with testing conducted at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford [1, 2].
Unlike traditional ultrasound machines that require stationary equipment and professional operators for intermittent checks, this wearable patch can monitor a fetus continuously for hours at a time [1]. Some reports indicate the device is designed to provide 24/7 monitoring [5]. This shift from episodic to constant observation could allow doctors to identify fetal distress in real time.
"Wearable ultrasound technology has the potential to enable continuous prenatal monitoring and improve pregnancy outcomes in ways that were previously not possible," Geonho Park said [5].
The patch is designed to be soft and flexible, allowing it to adhere to the skin of the abdomen without causing discomfort to the wearer. By providing a steady stream of data, the device reduces the need for frequent hospital visits for patients who require intensive surveillance.
“The device, referred to as the "UPatch" or "baby-bump monitor," is currently a proof-of-concept.”
The transition from intermittent clinical ultrasounds to continuous wearable monitoring represents a significant shift in prenatal care. If the UPatch moves beyond the proof-of-concept stage, it could reduce the reliance on sporadic hospital appointments and provide a more comprehensive data set for clinicians to identify fetal anomalies or distress before they become fatal.
