Your Pregnancy: 6 Weeks

Pregnancy is measured in weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period, with ovulation and conception usually occurring about two weeks after that date. For some women, especially those who have irregular cycles, it’s hard to determine a due date, and a dating ultrasound may be offered between six and 11 weeks. The ultrasound takes about 10 minutes, and the report is sent to your healthcare provider. It can determine if your baby has a heartbeat and whether you’re having more than one baby (imagine twins?!). If the scan happens earlier in your first trimester—perhaps at six weeks pregnant or seven—know that the ultrasound might not be like the ones you’ve seen in the movies, where the technician rubs your belly with  gel and a transducer. Because the baby is very small, the technician may need to do a transvaginal ultrasound, which is an internal pelvic exam with a wand. It’s not the most fun experience, but, hey, you get to see your baby—and, if all goes well, a teeny, fluttering little heartbeat!