[Submitted Question]

My last pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. As a result I am very worried this time around. Now I have heard that the risk of miscarriage is comparatively low once a heartbeat has been detected. Is that true? I sure hope so because at my last appointment a very clear heartbeat was heard!

Dani A., South Carolina

[WombToBloom]

Statistically, the risk of miscarriage does drop after you’ve heard a heartbeat. 30% to 75% of most fertilized eggs are miscarried in the first two weeks. That figure drops to 10% to 15% between three and six weeks of gestation. And then to 5% or lower between six to 12 weeks (especially when a heartbeat has been detected).

A clear heartbeat early on is not a free pass though – I actually lost a baby at about 10 weeks after having seen a heartbeat at six weeks - but my situation was certainly not the norm, statistically speaking. Congratulations on hearing that wonderful Doppler sound and good luck!

[journeybirth]

If I remember correctly, once you have heard the heartbeat with a doppler your chance of miscarriage is really low, lower than just seeing the heartbeat on ultrasound.

[DoulaJamie]

This is always a tough one...with previous experience working in an OBGYN office I can tell you that we have seen 20 week miscarriages...not to scare you but the possibility is ALWAYS there...it is however a good sign that you have seen and heard the heart beat...

How many weeks are you currently?..

[AimeeLashley]

That's wonderful that you've heard that sweet sound of the doppler. I, too, had a "late" miscarriage at about 13 weeks, but I've since gone on to have 4 wonderfully healthy children. It's hard not to worry, but your chances of miscarrying are less now so try to relax and enjoy your pregnancy!!!

[BlueEyedCat]

I have had several miscarriages but they were all early...before a heartbeat could have been heard (or seen too probably). I have had five successful pregnancies too.
I think you can feel a little more secure hearing the heartbeat but yes it is true that you can still have a miscarriage. Not as likely now though. Hang in there and enjoy each moment. Odds are definitely in your favor that all will go well. Congratulations!

[Leticia Wilson]

Originally Posted by WombToBloom

My last pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. As a result I am very worried this time around. Now I have heard that the risk of miscarriage is comparatively low once a heartbeat has been detected. Is that true? I sure hope so because at my last appointment a very clear heartbeat was heard!

Dani A., South Carolina

Congratulations on the beautiful sound of your precious lil ones heartbeat : ) I remember the wonderful, warm and fuzzy feeling that came over me, when I first experienced that. I agree with everyone else...pamper yourself and take it easy and enjoy this phase of your pregnancy!

The power of prayer is incredible, I will include you and your family and your lil one in my prayers

Warmest Wishes,

Leticia Wilson Photography
Leticia Wilson Photography

[forwomen]

There is greater than a 90% chance that things will go well once a heartbeat is heard.
BYates CNM

[Mommyto3bugs]

Statistically, yes after hearing the heartbeat, your risk does go down, but that doesn't mean that a miscarriage cannot still occur.

[nicchilton]

My second pregnancy ended in miscarriage at 11 weeks. I know too well your fears of another miscarriage. I can tell you what my OB told me when a doppler heartbeat was heard at around 8-9 weeks of my 3rd pregnancy..."Hearing that hearbeat mean's there's a 99% change of delivering a bouncing baby boy or girl in about 7 months."