4
5. Locating and detecting
• Between 8 to 16 gestational weeks it is possible to hear your baby’s heartbeat
if conditions are optimal but you may not be able to detect it that early on.
• After the 16
th
week you should have no problem finding the heartbeat.
As the baby grows, the heartbeat becomes stronger and it will be easier
for you to detect it.
• The gestational chart below shows approximately the area where you should
be able to find your baby’s heartbeat as it grows each week.
• Early in the gestation period, place the transducer near the middle of
the abdomen above the pubic line but aiming down towards the pubic bone.
• Move the transducer slowly while searching because the heart is so small that
you might miss it if you move too quickly.
• Keep in mind that each mother and baby is different so not being able
to detect the heartbeat early is not a reason for concern.
• If you are not able to detect the baby within 10 minutes, it is recommended
to take a break and to try again in the next few days. However, if you are
concerned about any issues relating to your pregnancy you should contact
your healthcare provider for assistance.
• We recommend keeping the session to less than 10 minutes at a time.
8
12
16
20
26
32
40
36
WEEKS
