When Does the Heartbeat Start?
Your baby's heart begins to beat around 5–6 weeks of pregnancy, though it may only become visible on an early ultrasound from about 6 weeks. A normal early heart rate is roughly 110–160 beats per minute.
The timeline
- The heart tube forms around week 5.
- It starts beating around weeks 5–6.
- It is usually visible on a transvaginal scan from about 6 weeks.
Normal heart rate
Early on the rate is around 110–160 bpm, and it changes as pregnancy progresses. Your doctor will monitor it at scans and visits.
If it is not seen yet
If no heartbeat is seen very early, it is often because dates are slightly off. Your doctor may repeat the scan in a week or so before drawing any conclusions.
Frequently asked questions
At how many weeks does the heart start beating?
Around 5–6 weeks, becoming visible on ultrasound from about 6 weeks.
What is a normal fetal heart rate?
Roughly 110–160 beats per minute, varying through pregnancy.
What if no heartbeat is seen at 6 weeks?
It may be too early or dates may be off; your doctor will usually rescan before concluding.
Follow your baby week by week 💜
See exactly how your baby grows in the complete 40-week guide.
40-Week GuideJoin The CircleReferences
- WHO. Antenatal care recommendations. who.int
- ACOG. Fetal development. acog.org
- NHS. You and your baby, week by week. nhs.uk
- Tommy's. Baby movements & development. tommys.org
- CDC. During Pregnancy. cdc.gov