One of the most exciting moments in early pregnancy is seeing that tiny flicker on an ultrasound! But it’s important to remember that fetal heart rate changes quickly during the first few weeks, so there isn’t one specific number we need to see at every appointment.

According to BabyCenter, the approximate fetal heart rate increases rapidly during weeks 5–9:

5 weeks: ❤️80–103 bpm
6 weeks: 🧡103–126 bpm
7 weeks: 💛126–149 bpm
8 weeks: 💚149–172 bpm
9 weeks: 💙155–195 bpm

The big takeaway: Fetal heart rate typically increases as pregnancy progresses. A number that may seem low at 5 or 6 weeks can be very different just a week later.

Your medical team will look at the heart rate along with gestational age, growth, and the overall ultrasound to determine how the pregnancy is progressing. While that beautiful heartbeat is exciting to see, a single number is not something to be overly focused on.

Medical Disclaimer: An Eggceptional Match is not a medical provider. This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All medical questions and advisement should come directly from your fertility clinic, obstetrician, or primary care provider (PCP).