What Does "no Fetal Cardiac Activity Seen At Present.." Mean?

Posted on Sat, 22 Feb 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 22 Feb 2014 Answered on

Wed, 12 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : scan taken today.. fetus of crl 5.9mm corresponding to 6 weeks 3 days..no fetal cardiac activity seen at present... decicual reaction appears normal no evidence of subchonionic hematoma internal os closed both ovaries appear normal in shape, size and echotexture..please advise.

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer: EXPLAINED BELOW Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for writing to us with your health concern. Normally, cardiac activity appears on ultrasound scan by 6 weeks, when the scan is done vaginally. Was the ultrasound done vaginally or abdominally ? Also, what was the date of your last menstrual period ? If you have a history of delayed cycles, or irregular cycles, then you can wait and watch for another week for a repeat scan, which might show heartbeat. Meanwhile, take rest. Avoid stress and intercourse, and take the medications as prescribed. All the best. Please feel free to discuss further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Aarti Abraham (3 minutes later)

thanks..i am little relieved...scan report says..transabdominal... and lmp is december 20th 2013...scan report says..transabdominal... and lmp is december 20th 2013...is that okay

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: AS BELOW Detailed Answer: It should NOT be a transabdominal scan. By the LMP, you are now atleast 9 weeks pregnant, then the report is worrisome. Did you have regular cycles ? Please get a transvaginal scan repeated. Can you upload the report and send it to me for viewing ?

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Aarti Abraham (40 hours later)

hi doctor, good morning..yes mam..i have regular periods (rarely..1 2 days..late) ...i have attached the reports. please go through and advise me. Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: EXPLAINED BELOW Detailed Answer: Hi Yes, have gone through your report. As suggested, for reconfirmation, please have a repeat scan after one week. Just make sure that it is done transvaginally, and not transabdominally. Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar