Is it normal not to have a fetal heartbeat or fetal bud at 7 weeks of pregnancy?

It may be a normal phenomenon if there is no fetal heartbeat or fetal bud detected at 7 weeks of pregnancy, but it could also indicate abnormal embryonic development. A comprehensive assessment combining the menstrual cycle and the development of the gestational sac is needed. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If a woman usually has irregular menstrual cycles with frequent delays, the actual gestational age may be less than the calculated weeks since her last menstrual period due to postponed ovulation. In such cases, the embryo may implant later than usual, and the fetal heart and bud might not yet be visible at 7 weeks. The gestational sac may appear smaller than expected for the gestational age but maintains a regular shape, and the pregnant woman usually doesn't experience discomfort such as abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding. An ultrasound follow-up after 1-2 weeks is recommended, and the fetal heartbeat and bud are usually detectable in subsequent examinations.

When a woman has a regular menstrual cycle, or if there is still no fetal heartbeat or bud detected upon follow-up examination, combined with an irregularly shaped gestational sac, slow growth in size, declining or stagnant serum hCG levels, low progesterone levels, or symptoms such as vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain, these signs often indicate poor embryonic development or embryonic arrest. This may be caused by chromosomal abnormalities, poor embryo quality, insufficient maternal hormone levels, or other factors. Further evaluation under a doctor's guidance is necessary, and appropriate management measures should be considered when needed.

When there is no fetal heartbeat or bud detected at 7 weeks, excessive anxiety should be avoided. First, confirm the gestational age and evaluate the development status of the gestational sac. If the menstrual cycle is irregular or the size of the gestational sac does not match the gestational age, follow-up examination can be performed according to medical advice.