When can I check my heartbeat?Timing and how to see it explained

Table of Contents

1. When heartbeat confirmation becomes possible

A fetal heartbeat is an important sign that occurs in the early stages of pregnancy.
The heartbeat can generally be seen on ultrasound around late 5 to 6 weeks of gestation

However, the timing of confirmation may vary depending on the following factors

• Displacement of the date of ovulation or fertilization
  The number of weeks of pregnancy is usually calculated based on the start of the last menstrual period. However, due to individual differences in the timing of ovulation and fertilization, the confirmation of the heartbeat may be later than expected.
• Ultrasonic Equipment Performance
  With the latest high-resolution ultrasound equipment, a heartbeat can often be detected as late as the fifth week of pregnancy, but the difference depends on the type of equipment.

Studies have shown that a heartbeat is usually detectable by the sixth week of pregnancy, and ultrasound resolution and manipulation techniques affect the success rate of confirmation.

2. Specific Methods of Heart Rate Confirmation

Heartbeat confirmation is an ultrasound performed in early pregnancy

Transvaginal ultrasound

• Primary methods used in early pregnancy (5-12 weeks)
• A probe is inserted into the vagina for a closer look inside the uterus
• Heartbeat can be confirmed in the second half of the 5th to 6th week of pregnancy

Transabdominal ultrasonography

• Mainly used after the second trimester (after 12 weeks)
• Probe is applied to the abdomen

3. Causes and remedies when a heartbeat cannot be confirmed

If a heartbeat cannot be confirmed at 6 weeks gestation, the following causes are possible

Main Causes

• Gestational week discrepancy
  The timing of fertilization may be delayed.
• Equipment Limitations
  Older ultrasound equipment can be difficult to confirm.
• Possibility of miscarriage
  If a heartbeat is not confirmed, there is a possibility of a comitted abortion.

Counter-measure

• Reinspection conducted
  A repeat examination is performed one to two weeks later to reconfirm fetal growth and heartbeat.
• Consultation with a physician
  Follow your doctor’s instructions for the final decision.

4. Pregnancy Continuation Rate After Heartbeat Confirmation

When a fetal heartbeat is confirmed, the risk of subsequent miscarriage is greatly reduced. Studies show that if a heartbeat is confirmed at 8 weeks gestation, the miscarriage rate is less than 5%.

Data

• Heartbeat confirmed at 6 weeks gestation: approximately 16% miscarriage rate
• Heartbeat detected at 8 weeks gestation: <5% miscarriage rate
• After 12 weeks: <1% miscarriage rate

Studies have shown a dramatic decrease in miscarriage rates after heartbeat confirmation.

5. Relevance to NIPT testing

NIPT is usually performed after 10 weeks of pregnancy, and heartbeat confirmation is an important preparatory step.

• Confirmation of indications for testing
  A confirmed heartbeat confirms that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
• Timing of Inspection
  After the heartbeat is confirmed, waiting until 10 weeks’ gestation improves the accuracy of the test.

For more information on NIPT testing, we recommend that you consult with a specialist or clinic.

6. Be careful after confirming heartbeat

Even after a heartbeat is confirmed, the early stages of pregnancy should be carefully monitored.

• Avoid excessive exercise and stress
• Consult a doctor immediately if you experience bleeding or abdominal pain
• Undergo regular antenatal checkups

Especially in the early stages of pregnancy, it is important to take it easy and get some rest because of morning sickness and physical changes.

7. Summary

Heartbeat confirmation is an important step in confirming the health of the fetus and the progress of the pregnancy.

• Heartbeat can be confirmed at 5-6 weeks gestation
• Miscarriage rate drops significantly after heartbeat confirmation
• Heart rate confirmation is also important as a preparatory step for NIPT testing

Pregnancy is a time of much anxiety, but you should feel comfortable working with your doctor based on accurate information.

Evidence Reference Links

• Ultrasound and Early Fetal Cardiac Activity
• Early Pregnancy Loss and Fetal Cardiac Activity