Fetisova was swimming for SKA Leningrad (the Soviet Army Club) and was a member of the Soviet national team from 1970 to 1976. In 1974, she won a national title in the 100 m breaststroke event. At the 1974 European Aquatics Championships, she won a bronze medal in the individual 200 m medley setting a new national record. She finished her swimming career in 1976 and switched to rowing.