Question

A woman consulted about an issue regarding the fetal heart and yolk sac in early pregnancy. She mentioned her last menstrual period was on September 5th, and her period was delayed by 9 days in August. Blood tests showed a low progesterone level, so her doctor prescribed progesterone. Her HCG levels were doubling as expected, with two blood tests 8 days apart. The doctor, based on a pregnancy estimate of 43 days, conducted an ultrasound examination but only saw the yolk sac, whereas normally, a fetal heart and yolk sac should be present by then. The doctor advised a re-examination in 7-10 days; if there is still no yolk sac, there may be a risk of not being able to keep the baby. She inquired whether this situation was normal and if the baby could be saved.

Answer

Generally, the fetal heart and yolk sac appear around 40 days into pregnancy. If there is no fetal heart or yolk sac by 43 days pregnant, there is no need to be overly concerned. Follow the doctor’s instructions for bed rest and expectant care, and have another ultrasound examination around ten days later. Wishing for a healthy pregnancy. This is the advice for this question; hope it is helpful to you, and wish you good health!