The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy to nourish and support the growing baby. It usually becomes visible on an ultrasound around week 6 of pregnancy.
Here's a breakdown of how the placenta develops and when it can be seen:
- Weeks 3-4: The fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining, and the placenta starts to form.
- Week 5: The placenta is still very small and not yet visible on ultrasound.
- Week 6: The placenta is developing rapidly and should be visible on a transvaginal ultrasound.
- Week 7-10: The placenta grows larger and becomes more visible on a transabdominal ultrasound.
Factors that can affect when the placenta is seen on ultrasound:
- Ultrasound type: Transvaginal ultrasounds are more sensitive than transabdominal ultrasounds and can often detect the placenta earlier.
- Individual variations: The size and development of the placenta can vary slightly from person to person.
- Gestational age: In some cases, the placenta may be visible slightly earlier or later than expected.
If you have any concerns about the development of your placenta, please consult your healthcare provider.
