Treatment Overview
An Early Fetal Viability Scan is a specialized ultrasound performed in the early weeks of pregnancy to confirm the presence, location, and health of a developing embryo. In Korea, this scan is a cornerstone of early pregnancy care, typically conducted between 5 and 8 weeks of gestation, following a positive pregnancy test or Beta-hCG confirmation.
The scan uses high-resolution transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound imaging to visualize the gestational sac, yolk sac, fetal pole, and early heartbeat. It helps confirm that the pregnancy is viable, intrauterine, and progressing normally. Korean OBGYN centers are globally recognized for their advanced imaging equipment, skilled ultrasonographers, and early diagnostic accuracy — ensuring reassurance and safety for expectant mothers during the earliest stage of pregnancy.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of the Early Fetal Viability Scan is to verify that an early pregnancy is developing healthily within the uterus. It also serves as a critical follow-up to confirm results from a Beta-hCG blood test or digital monitoring.
Key Benefits:
- Confirms intrauterine pregnancy: Ensures the embryo is developing in the uterus, ruling out ectopic pregnancy.
- Detects early heartbeat: Confirms fetal cardiac activity, which indicates a viable pregnancy.
- Assesses implantation site and number: Identifies whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy.
- Measures gestational age: Determines accurate dating of the pregnancy based on crown-rump length (CRL).
- Monitors early pregnancy symptoms: Investigates causes of pain, spotting, or uncertainty in early gestation.
- Provides emotional reassurance: Offers peace of mind for couples, especially after fertility treatments or previous pregnancy losses.
- Supports prenatal care planning: Helps OBGYNs schedule appropriate follow-up visits and prenatal screenings.
Korean fertility and obstetric clinics conduct early viability scans with precision and empathy, making this a vital first milestone in pregnancy care.
Ideal Candidates
The Early Fetal Viability Scan is suitable for all women with a confirmed or suspected early pregnancy, particularly those requiring close monitoring.
Recommended for:
- Women 5–8 weeks pregnant following a positive Beta-hCG or home test.
- Patients who have undergone IVF, IUI, or embryo transfer.
- Women with a history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
- Individuals experiencing early pregnancy symptoms such as bleeding, pain, or cramping.
- Couples seeking reassurance after fertility treatments or delayed conception.
- High-risk pregnancies needing early and precise evaluation.
Korean OBGYN clinics tailor each scan based on gestational stage, hormone levels, and individual patient history.
Possible Risks & Complications
The Early Fetal Viability Scan is safe, non-invasive, and widely used in early pregnancy diagnosis. However, a few considerations apply:
- Very early testing limitations: Scanning before 5 weeks may not yet show an embryo or heartbeat.
- Emotional stress: Waiting for visible fetal development can be anxiety-inducing if results are inconclusive.
- Follow-up requirements: If findings are uncertain, a repeat scan may be needed after a few days.
- Mild discomfort: Transvaginal ultrasound may cause minor pressure or sensitivity.
- False reassurance risk: Rarely, early scans may appear normal before complications develop later.
Korean clinics minimize these issues by using top-grade ultrasound systems and providing compassionate explanations throughout the process.
Techniques & Diagnostic Methods
Korean OBGYN centers utilize advanced high-frequency ultrasound systems with digital imaging capabilities to perform the scan with maximum clarity and precision.
1. Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS)
- Performed between 5–7 weeks of gestation for the most detailed early view.
- Provides high-resolution imaging of the gestational sac, yolk sac, and fetal heartbeat.
2. Transabdominal Ultrasound (TAS)
- Usually performed from 7–8 weeks when the embryo is larger.
- Offers a wider field of view, particularly useful in later follow-up.
3. Viability Markers Assessed:
- Gestational sac: Confirms presence within the uterus.
- Yolk sac: Indicates early nutrient support for the embryo.
- Fetal pole: The first visible structure of the embryo.
- Cardiac activity: Confirms a living embryo and viable pregnancy.
- Crown-Rump Length (CRL): Determines gestational age and developmental rate.
4. Additional Evaluation:
- Uterine lining, corpus luteum, and adnexal regions are checked to exclude abnormalities such as ectopic or molar pregnancy.
Korean clinics combine advanced imaging technology with professional interpretation to ensure diagnostic accuracy from the earliest stages.
Recovery & Aftercare
The Early Fetal Viability Scan is non-invasive and requires no recovery time. However, proper aftercare and emotional support are important for expectant mothers.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Resume normal activity immediately: No downtime or restrictions are needed.
- Hydrate well: Especially if a transabdominal scan is performed, as a full bladder aids visibility.
- Follow medical advice: If results are inconclusive, repeat the scan after 1–2 weeks for confirmation.
- Emotional care: Clinics often provide counseling for patients awaiting results or experiencing anxiety.
- Prenatal follow-up: Once viability is confirmed, doctors plan the next steps, including the first full prenatal visit and lifestyle recommendations.
Korean OBGYN clinics emphasize comfort, privacy, and reassurance throughout the early pregnancy process.
Results & Longevity
The Early Fetal Viability Scan offers immediate and detailed insights into the health of an early pregnancy.
Expected Outcomes:
- Visible gestational sac: Usually detected from 4.5 to 5 weeks of pregnancy.
- Yolk sac appearance: Visible by 5.5 weeks.
- Fetal pole and heartbeat: Typically observed between 6–7 weeks.
- Heartbeat rate: A strong rhythm (100–120 bpm) at 6 weeks indicates normal viability.
- Normal CRL growth: Confirms healthy embryonic development.
In some cases, if viability cannot yet be confirmed (for example, if the embryo is too small or heartbeat is not visible), a repeat scan within 7–10 days provides clarity.
Korean clinics provide digital imaging records and detailed medical reports, allowing continuous monitoring and smooth transition into routine prenatal care.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Initial Consultation
- Review of Beta-hCG levels and early pregnancy symptoms.
- Scheduling of the first viability scan, usually at 5–6 weeks gestation.
Step 2 – Ultrasound Examination
- Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound performed using advanced imaging equipment.
- Doctor evaluates gestational sac, fetal pole, heartbeat, and uterine environment.
Step 3 – Medical Interpretation
- OBGYN explains findings in detail and confirms viability or advises follow-up if early.
- Any abnormalities or concerns are discussed with sensitivity and precision.
Step 4 – Prenatal Transition
- If fetal heartbeat is confirmed, prenatal vitamins and first-trimester care plan are initiated.
- Next ultrasound scheduled between 8–10 weeks for continued monitoring.
Why Korea Excels in Early Fetal Viability Care
- Cutting-edge ultrasound technology ensuring clear imaging at very early stages.
- Highly trained OBGYN specialists with expertise in fertility and early pregnancy management.
- Comprehensive maternal care system integrating fertility, diagnostic, and prenatal services.
- Personalized patient communication to provide reassurance and clarity.
- Emphasis on precision and compassion throughout the process.
Korea’s integrated healthcare approach ensures early, accurate, and emotionally supportive pregnancy confirmation.
Cost Range
The cost of an Early Fetal Viability Scan in Korea varies by clinic type and diagnostic package.
Typical price ranges include:
- Standard Early Pregnancy Ultrasound: USD 60 – 120
- Detailed Viability and Hormone Assessment Package: USD 100 – 200
- Combined IVF Post-Transfer Monitoring Package: USD 150 – 250
- Comprehensive Prenatal Start-Up Package: USD 200 – 350
Most clinics include consultation, imaging, and medical reporting within the total fee.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- CHA Fertility Center (Seoul / Bundang): Renowned for high-precision early pregnancy imaging.
- Maria Fertility Hospital: Offers early scan integration with fertility follow-up care.
- MizMedi Women’s Hospital: Provides early ultrasound confirmation and maternal support programs.
- Hamchoon Women’s Clinic: Specializes in early fetal monitoring for fertility patients.
- Seoul National University Hospital (OBGYN): Known for comprehensive obstetric imaging excellence.
