When Does a Baby Get Its Heartbeat?
This is a question that many parents-to-be ask. The answer is not always straightforward, as there are a number of factors that can affect when a baby’s heartbeat begins.
Factors That Affect When a Baby Gets Its Heartbeat
- Maternal age: The average age at which a baby gets its heartbeat is 22 weeks gestation. However, this can vary depending on the mother’s age. Younger mothers tend to have babies with earlier heartbeats than older mothers.
- Gestational age: The gestational age of the baby is also a factor that can affect when the heartbeat begins. Babies who are born prematurely may have heartbeats that start later than babies who are born full-term.
- Health of the mother and baby: The health of the mother and baby can also affect when the heartbeat begins. Babies who are born to mothers who are unhealthy or who have certain medical conditions may have heartbeats that start later than babies who are born to healthy mothers.
How to Detect a Baby’s Heartbeat
The most common way to detect a baby’s heartbeat is through a Doppler ultrasound. This is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the baby’s heart. A Doppler ultrasound can be performed as early as 10 weeks gestation, but it is usually not until 12 weeks gestation that the baby’s heartbeat can be detected with this method.
Another way to detect a baby’s heartbeat is through a fetal stethoscope. This is a handheld device that is placed on the mother’s abdomen. The fetal stethoscope can be used to listen to the baby’s heartbeat as early as 18 weeks gestation.
What to Do If You Can’t Detect Your Baby’s Heartbeat
If you are unable to detect your baby’s heartbeat using a Doppler ultrasound or a fetal stethoscope, it is important to see your doctor. Your doctor may perform an ultrasound to confirm that the baby’s heartbeat is present. If the baby’s heartbeat is not present, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause.
Conclusion
The average age at which a baby gets its heartbeat is 22 weeks gestation. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, including the mother’s age, the gestational age of the baby, and the health of the mother and baby. If you are unable to detect your baby’s heartbeat using a Doppler ultrasound or a fetal stethoscope, it is important to see your doctor.
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