How early can you hear a baby's heart beat in early pregnancy?

When Can You See a Baby’s Heartbeat on an Ultrasound?

One of the most exciting early milestones in pregnancy is seeing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time. It’s often the moment when everything starts to feel real.

How Early Can You Detect a Baby’s Heartbeat?

A baby’s heartbeat can sometimes be seen as early as 5 to 6 weeks into pregnancy during an early pregnancy scan. At this stage, a transvaginal ultrasound is typically recommended because it offers a clearer and more detailed view than an abdominal scan. If an abdominal scan is used instead, the heartbeat may not be visible until closer to 8 weeks.

What Does a Baby’s Heartbeat Look Like on an Early Scan?

At this early stage, the heartbeat appears as a tiny flickering motion in the embryo. It’s a reassuring sign that development is progressing as expected.

Is It Safe to Listen to the Baby’s Heartbeat Early in Pregnancy?

While the flicker of the heartbeat can be seen early on, the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISUOG) advises against listening to the heartbeat before 11 weeks. This is to avoid unnecessary exposure to Doppler ultrasound energy, which is used to detect sound.

What If the Heartbeat Isn’t Visible Yet?

If the heartbeat isn’t visible during your first scan, try not to worry, it might simply be too early, especially if your dates aren’t exact. In many cases, a follow-up scan a week or so later will provide a clearer picture.

Why Is Seeing the Heartbeat So Important?

That tiny flicker is more than just a visual,  it’s a powerful sign that your baby is growing and developing. For many parents, it’s a deeply emotional and memorable moment in their pregnancy journey.