The fetal heart rate is actually the heartbeat of the fetus. The fetal heart rate plays a crucial role in the smooth growth of the fetus. If during prenatal check ups in the hospital, it is found that the heartbeat of the fetus cannot be heard, it is very likely that there is a problem with the fetus. So, where is the fetal heart at 23 weeks of pregnancy?
Usually, around 23 weeks of pregnancy, the fetal heart rate is located in the middle or slightly left to right below the navel of the pregnant woman, while most fetal heart sounds are heard more clearly at the back of the fetus. However, the position of the fetal heart also changes with the position of the fetus in the abdomen, so it is not completely fixed.
Moreover, fetal heart sounds cannot be heard from the beginning of pregnancy, as the fetal heart is just starting to beat and cannot be detected by instruments at that time. When you are around eight to ten weeks pregnant, you can see the complete fetal heart rate by going to the hospital for a prenatal examination. Some novice parents want to determine whether their baby is developing normally by listening to fetal heart rate, which is completely feasible. But if you don't have experience, it is recommended to learn slowly under the guidance of a doctor.
After around 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, fetal heart sounds can be heard through a stethoscope. Under normal circumstances, the fetal heart rate should be maintained at around 120 to 160 beats per minute. If it is lower than 120 or higher than 160, it indicates that the fetus may be at risk of hypoxia and should be promptly examined and diagnosed at the hospital.
