Fetal Pole Development: What to Expect in the First Trimester

In early pregnancy, the fetal pole is the first visible sign of embryonic development. What is fetal pole? It is a thickening on the margin of the yolk sac, appearing as a curved structure with a crown (head) and rump (tail). Typically detectable via transvaginal ultrasound around 5.5 to 6 weeks of gestation, the fetal pole's presence confirms an intrauterine pregnancy and helps estimate gestational age. Monitoring its development is crucial for assessing pregnancy health and progression.