I am about 4-6 weeks pregnant (probably more like 5-6) and they said the heartbeat was really slow-is that ok?

Question

I went to the Dr on wednesday and I had no idea how far along I was, so they took some blood and then did an sonogram (i think) i dont know the different btwn the sonogram and ultrasound yet (im really new to this)-- anyways, they couldnt see anything except for the sac-- so I had to go back today-- the results of my blood were good/high ( about 10,038) but then they said that they should have seen something last time so I had another sono done today- this time I saw the embryo (ee!!) but she said the heartbeat was really really slow...is that bad? or could I just be earlier than we think? I have had pretty low blood pressure my whole life so could that have something to do with it-- I was also STARVING. Should I worry? This is my first pregnancy and I really really want it to work out.. Thanks for all your help!

Answer 1

Alright....First, let's address some myths. The fetal heart rate, when used to attempt to determine the sex of an unborn child, is accurate only about 50% of the time.....the same as if you guessed. A fast or slow heart rate does not indicate gender.

Now, the fetal heart begins to beat in an organized manner around 21 to 22 days of gestation. This is probably why no heart beat was detected at the first visit. You just weren't far enough along, most likely. The heart rate is normally slower at the beginning of pregnancy, though some obstetrical nurses forget this and worry new mommies for no reason at all.

The fetal heart rate, at 6 weeks of gestation, is around 100 beats. By 2 months GA (gestational age), it should increase to around 170. The heart rate should then begin to decrease, beating approximately 140 times per minute at 20 weeks, and 130 at full term. A fetal heart rate between 120 and 160 beats per minute, during the second and third trimesters, is considered normal.

Please note that these numbers are AVERAGES!!!

If the baby is still just an embryo, this would account for a slower heart beat, though if it remains slow through out your pregnancy, your doctor should offer more extensive prenatal tests to determine the cause of the lag. Low blood pressure is a wonderful thing during pregnancy, when the blood pressure of many women normally rises, and can result in eclampsia if it rises too high. Praise your genes during your pregnancy for this normally low pressure, as it may save lots of pain in the long run. As far as being "starving" you should try to avoid that for the next 9 months. Eat regularly and healthy and good luck!

Answer 2

Just the fact that there was no heart beat at the first ultrasound, and not there is one is a good sign. Theres a single moment in time where that muscle LEAPS to life. And some times it takes a while for it to pick up the pace. I honestly wouldnt worry about it. Your levels keep going right up like they should.

Theres really no difference between an ultrasound and a sonogram, they both imply the same thing, using sound waves to provide and image.

Gluck!

Answer 3

Don't worry, it sounds just fine. I think the old wives tale is that if the heartbeat is slow it's a boy, and fast it's a girl. The doc would've laid it all out on the table if there were a problem. Good luck!

Answer 4

You are just probably not as far along as you think. When I went with my daughter they said they could barely see a heartbeat but said it was because I wasn't far enough along. I'm sure that there is nothing to worry about. Good luck in everything ahead of you!

Answer 5

to be honest, im suprised they saw anything more than a sac with a bean(fetal pole) in it. its almost impossible to see the heart beat until a minimum of 6 w 3.
i wouldnt stress it at this point. you can always ask the doc to do another one at your next apt.
congrats and good luck

Answer 6

Relax. Slow heartbeat usually means its a girl. Eat more. Especially good for you food. Rest a lot.

Answer 7

Why don't you ask your doctor?