Pregnancy

[hectic]

Hi all, hope you had a good xmas! Just a quick one, I went to the doctors this morning as I was advised I was 12 weeks pregnant and had the heartbeat scan with the doppler, only the doctor couldn't find one, he then did a feel around and concluded I was actually only 10 weeks, however I have read places that a heartbeat is detecable form 8 weeks, anyone else had any similar experiences as I am very worried now? Thanks

[drestie]

There's a lot of variability in when the fetal heartbeat can be detected by using the doppler scan, so I would trust your doctor.
Just to ease your mind a bit, have a look here: http://www.drspock.com/article/0,1510,9851,00. html.

Did your doctor mention anything about a crown to rump length or a fetal pole?

[hectic]

He didn't no cause it was only the doppler he used, it was only at the GP's and not the hospital, I'm going up there on Tues so hopefully they can do something more, we could hear the receptionists speaking on the instrument he had this morning, but as I said, its left me very worried!

[LazyGun]

A doppler scan can detect a foetal heartbeat from as early as 8 weeks... but just because it can doesn't mean that this is the norm. There are a number of reasons why a hearbeat couldn't be detected during your scan... an anterior placenta, your baby lying in a position that makes it difficult to pick up, fat reserves building up during pregnancy etc.

I don't think you should worry yourself unduly at this point, hectic.... I would imagine that you will be going back for a scan in 2 weeks or so, and they can redo the doppler scan at that point, or arrange an ultrasound if there are any significant grounds for concern.

[hectic]

Thanks for your answers, will try not too worry too much, but it is soooo hard not to!

[badgerchops]

Hectic, you know that you need to stay calm at this stage. Just relax and go back in a fortnight to the GP. I am sure everything is fine.

x

[Goodsoulette]

All sorts of things can stop a midwife/doctor being able to hear the heartbeat especially at an early stage, sometimes it can take them ages to find it during the third trimester, let alone the first.

Good luck xx

[drestie]

Hiya hectic,
I was thinking about you and wondering how you were doing.
I hope you don't mind me asking - are you well?
Best wishes,
estie

[hectic]

Hiya drestie, thanks for your post, I am doing well now thank you, had a bit of a scare with some bleeding but had a scan and seen little one moving around and with the hiccups, very cute! Clothes getting tight now, bring oon the belly, ha ha x

[drestie]

Oh I am so happy to hear that, hectic!!
Best wishes to you and the little one!
xxx