Development of the fetus is such a miraculous process, and it starts right from conception and then progresses throughout the entire course of the pregnancy. One significant milestone in fetal development is the formation of the heart. The heartbeat signifies both the baby's growth and health. Parents may find it comforting and informative to know what a normal fetal heart rate sounds like, when they may be able to hear the fetal heartbeat, and how different factors influence a healthy heart rate.
What Is A Fetus?
A developing infant from the ninth week of gestation until birth is considered a fetus. Before that stage, it is called an embryo. The fetal stage is the time when the baby grows and develops very rapidly and eventually forms all the organs and systems needed for life outside of the womb. Fetal development is actually quite complex and involves critical changes week by week. Some of the key events include:- Week 9-12: The heart is fully developed by week nine, continues to throb, and the brain grows rapidly. In addition, more defined joints in limbs start to be formed.
- Week 13-16: Arms and legs are considerably growing. The face, by now, begins to resemble a human-like face, and the nervous system starts to develop. The fetus may, by the end of this period, even start performing little movements but won't be felt yet by the mother.
- Weeks 17-24: During this stage, the baby’s lungs and critical organs develop, and tiny bones begin to harden. Fingernails and toenails also start to appear.
- Weeks 25-40: These remaining weeks in the pregnancy continue developing organs maturely, including the lungs, brain, and digestive system. At birth, the baby is perfectly prepared to live outside the mother's womb.
When Can You Hear The Baby's Heartbeat?
Probably the most thrilling time when you would like to hear your baby's heartbeat for the very first time is during the routine checkup at the prenatal clinic, where an ultrasound or Doppler instrument would be used. The range by which one can hear the fetal heartbeat is sort of variable, but in any case, it will fall into any of these ranges:- 6-7 weeks Transvaginally, you can detect a fetal heartbeat at six weeks of pregnancy. The heartbeat at this stage would appear as an extremely small flicker on the screen because it has just started its beat.
- 8-10 weeks (Routine Ultrasound Check): The baby's heart has become stronger at this time and one might sometimes hear the heartbeat with a Doppler even during routine check-ups.
- 10-12 weeks (Most Common Detection Period): At the end of the first trimester, most women are able to hear their baby's heartbeat during a prenatal exam. It should be remembered that Hearing the heartbeat at this stage usually indicates healthy development. If you don't feel the baby has a heartbeat right away, don't worry; it might be because of the way the baby is positioned or the quality of the equipment used.
Normal Fetal Heart Rate: What's Considered Healthy?
It is much faster than an adult, usually between 110 and 160 beats per minute, but it can be up to as high as 180 beats in response to movement of the fetus, the sleep-wake cycle of the baby, and gestational age. Do keep in mind that the fetal heart rate typically changes throughout pregnancy.Below is a typical outline of average heart rate at various periods of fetal development:
| Gestational Age (Weeks) | Normal Fetal Heart Rate (bpm) |
| 6-7 weeks | 90-110 bpm |
| 8-9 weeks | 120-160 bpm |
| 10-12 weeks | 110-160 bpm |
| 13-20 weeks | 140-150 bpm |
| 20+ weeks | 110-160 bpm |
What Does A Fetal Heart Sound Like?
A fetal heart is usually described as a rapid, repeated pulsating or galloping sound. It is distinguishable by a slower, deeper sound in comparison to an adult heartbeat. For most parents, hearing their baby's heartbeat for the first time is a very effective and emotional experience that helps uphold the reality of the pregnancy.The most commonly seen fetal heart rate is typically greater than normal because the baby is at a high level of development. During pregnancy, you may notice slight rhythm changes, which are usually not a concern.
Factors Affecting Fetal Heart Rate
It is noted that though this parameter is a good indicator of your baby's status, several factors can influence fetal heart rate. Some of them include:Maternal Health:
Any maternal conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or thyroid disorders may affect the fetal heart rate. For instance, the diabetic woman whose blood sugar control is not so good can alter the fetal heart rate. Furthermore, any infection in the mother or dehydration may cause transient variations. The position in the womb may sometimes make it hard or easy to identify the heartbeat. For example, when the fetus is placed on the back of the uterus or turned away from the ultrasound equipment, then finding the heartbeat might be challenging.Medications:
Some medications, especially those for controlling conditions in pregnancy, can have an influence on the fetal heart rate. If you're on medication during pregnancy, it is your duty to inform the doctor about it so that he/she could come to some assessment of the baby's condition.Stress:
Stress levels in the mother and the fetus may influence heart rates. Studies have proven that increased levels of maternal stress can lead to a higher fetal heart rate. Managing stress is, therefore, essential to remain in charge of not only maternal health but also fetal health.Exercise:
While it is prudent to maintain some level of moderate activity throughout the pregnancy, intense exercise can stimulate the baby's heartbeat for a period. Always have a balanced diet and be sure to consult your healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe to you and your baby.When To Seek Your Healthcare Provider?
Generally, the fetal heart rate will change. You should though be cautious for any particular patterns or anomalies that might signal complications in some babies:- Tachycardia: A heart rate that remains elevated greater than 160 bpm can suggest an acute compromise of the fetus or evidence of fetal distress.
- Bradycardia: A low heart rate that is constant at less than 110 bpm can indicate poor oxygenation of the fetus, impending or actual fetal distress, or serious heart disease.
- Absence of Heart Rate: If no fetal heart rate is detectable after 12 weeks, then you would want your doctor to suggest some additional tests that may include another follow-up ultrasound or other diagnostic tests in order to check the progress of the baby.
Hearing The Heartbeat And Emotional Implications
Probably one of the very emotional moments most parents experience for the first time is when they hear the heartbeat of their baby, which cements the idea of bonding with the pregnancy. This is one experience that can serve to make life within even more concrete, bringing reassuring moments and happiness during many of the early months of pregnancy.Conclusion
The day when the expectant woman is able to hear the baby's heart, for the first time, is always such an empowering moment. Knowing what's going to be considered as a standard fetal heart rate and when exactly you can expect to start hearing it, as well as what factors might influence it, will keep you better informed and more in control of things as pregnancy progresses.Regular prenatal checkups check the fetal heart rate and overall health. If you have any concern over your baby's heart rate or development, consult the Gynaecologist in Mumbai for the support and guidance to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
