Besides ultrasound detection, hearing a fetal heartbeat is definite proof of pregnancy. The heart is beating by the 5th week of pregnancy (or about 3 weeks after conception), but a heartbeat cannot be detected by a Doppler device until at least the 9th week of pregnancy, although it can be seen flickering on an ultrasound sooner. There are times when the heartbeat may not be heard that early because of the baby?s position or a miscalculated due date. Usually, a heartbeat isn?t picked up consistently until closer to 10-12 weeks after your last menstrual period, but once it is- it?s proof positive of pregnancy!
