How Early Can an Ultrasound Detect a Pregnancy and Heartbeat?

Early pregnancy is a time of wonder, emotion, and curiosity. For many parents-to-be, seeing their baby for the first time or hearing that first heartbeat is a moment they will never forget. Ultrasound technology offers a window into this special stage of pregnancy, providing comfort, reassurance, and a deeper sense of connection. But how early can an ultrasound detect a pregnancy and heartbeat?

At Had Me At Hello Imaging in Goodwood, South Australia, we specialise in providing reassurance ultrasounds for families wanting to experience these early milestones in a calm, non-medical environment. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Reassurance Ultrasound?

A reassurance ultrasound is a non-diagnostic scan designed to help parents connect with their growing baby. Unlike clinical scans, it is not used to take measurements or assess medical concerns. Instead, it offers an opportunity to see and hear your baby's heartbeat in a relaxed setting.

In Australia, low-risk pregnancies managed through the public system typically include only two routine ultrasounds; the first between 11 weeks and 0 days, and 13 weeks and 6 days gestation, and the second around the 18-21 week mark. Our reassurance scans offer the chance to see your baby more often and create lasting memories along the way. These scans are non-invasive, abdominal only, and designed entirely around providing emotional support and joy.

How Early Can a Pregnancy Be Seen on Ultrasound?

In a clinical setting, a gestational sac may be visible from around 4 to 5 weeks using transvaginal ultrasound scans. However, these types of scans are performed for diagnostic purposes and are typically done in a hospital or specialist setting.

At Had Me At Hello Imaging, we begin offering reassurance ultrasounds from 8 weeks of pregnancy, after your dating scan has confirmed gestation and location. By this stage, the baby is usually visible and the heartbeat can often be heard, making it the ideal time to start connecting visually and emotionally.

When Can a Fetal Heartbeat Be Detected?

A fetal heartbeat may first be detected by either a transvaginal or abdominal scan as early as 6 weeks. However, by 8 weeks, an abdominal ultrasound can typically pick up both the image and sound of the heartbeat clearly. This makes the 8-week mark a meaningful and reliable time to witness that first rhythmic sign of life.

Hearing your baby's heartbeat is often a highlight of the pregnancy experience. It brings peace of mind and helps create a strong emotional bond, especially during the early weeks when so much remains unseen.

Why Had Me At Hello Imaging Offers Ultrasounds from 8 Weeks

We choose to start reassurance scans at 8 weeks to ensure the clearest, most reassuring experience for parents. Earlier than this, images may not be as visible and the heartbeat may not yet be detectable via abdominal scan.

Our service is all about creating a calm, joyful experience without clinical stress. Scanning from 8 weeks allows us to offer a consistently positive, clear visual and auditory experience for families. If your baby does not cooperate on the day to get clear images, we offer you the opportunity to return for a free reshoot.

What to Expect During an 8-Week Reassurance Scan

Your ultrasound will be conducted using abdominal scanning equipment in a quiet, boutique environment. We do not take medical measurements or provide reports. The session is about celebrating your pregnancy with images and sound, not data.

Depending on the package you choose, the Quick Peace of Mind 2D Ultrasound or the Premium 2D Ultrasound, the appointment will take 10 or 20 minutes.

You’ll have the chance to see your baby on screen, hear the heartbeat, and take home keepsake photos and videos. Partners and loved ones are welcome to share in the moment. We also offer personalised heartbeat jewellery and gorgeous stuffed animals that play a recording of your baby's heartbeat so that you can treasure these precious memories forever.

The Emotional Benefits of Reassurance Scans

Reassurance scans offer more than a visual confirmation - they provide peace of mind during what can be an emotionally intense period. For parents who have experienced loss, undergone fertility treatments, or simply want extra connection, these scans can be incredibly supportive.

They offer time to pause, reflect, and enjoy the early stages of parenthood. These quiet, powerful moments are ones that many families treasure long after their baby is born.

Why Choose Had Me At Hello Imaging in Goodwood

Located in Goodwood, South Australia, Had Me At Hello Imaging offers a boutique experience tailored to expectant parents. Our clinic was created to be a calm, inviting space where joy, connection, and reassurance take centre stage.

We use high-quality ultrasound equipment and focus solely on providing beautiful, non-clinical experiences. Our team is friendly, professional, and passionate about creating lasting memories for every family who walks through our doors.

Early Reassurance, Lasting Memories

Ultrasounds are often viewed through a medical lens, but they can also be emotional milestones. From the first glimpse of your baby to the sound of a steady heartbeat, reassurance scans offer a way to celebrate the journey in a uniquely personal way.

At Had Me At Hello Imaging, we provide a special place where parents can start bonding with their baby from the earliest stages - without the stress or pressure of a clinical setting. We focus on connection, not diagnosis.

To book your reassurance ultrasound or learn more about our services, contact Had Me At Hello Imaging in Goodwood today.