The UPatch Monitoring System 

The UPatch Monitoring System 

Ultrasound is a widely used imaging technique that does not harm the patient or sonographer. It allows for detailed viewing of the soft tissue of the patient, as well as diagnostic metrics. During pregnancy, an ultrasound is crucial to visualize the fetus and to monitor basic anatomical structures throughout development. However, scans are routinely only done a few times throughout the pregnancy, unless complications arise, in which case more may be scheduled.  

The UPatch is an innovative technology that allows mothers of high-risk pregnancies to monitor the fetus throughout
its gestation period [1]. The mother can identify things like umbilical artery blood flow and waveforms. The UPatch visualized fetal anatomy and measured heart rate/blood flow with high sensitivity and accuracy during its initial 
testing phase of 53 mothers [1]. The current standard of having these metrics analyzed only during appointments 
works well; however, using one device that monitors the health status consistently would provide better insights and more accurate data. 

Doppler is a form of ultrasound that can bounce high-frequency sound waves off the red blood cells present in your 
bloodstream [2]. A traditional ultrasound uses soundwaves as well; however, cannot identify blood flow. Doppler 
can allow blood clots or heart valve defects to be identified noninvasively, which is a major technological benefit.Wearable technology is the future, and advancements such as the UPatch are truly going to make a lasting impact. 

Article written by Jennifer Joanna-Joan Villeneuve,
M.ESc Biomedical Engineering Candidate, B.ESc Mechatronic Systems & B.ESc Biomedical Engineering

References 
[1] S. Xu et al., “Fetal monitoring using a wearable ultrasound patch for high-risk pregnancies,” The National 
Library of Medicine, Oct. 2025. doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-7715480/v1  
[2] “Doppler ultrasound: What is it used for?,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests
procedures/ultrasound/expert-answers/doppler-ultrasound/faq-20058452 (accessed Jun. 12, 2026). 

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