Is a 'Fetal Heartbeat' Really a Heartbeat at 6 Weeks?

[Islander]

Rachael Rettner
May 17, 2019

So far this year, four U.S. states have passed laws banning abortions when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, at around six weeks of pregnancy; several additional states are also considering these so-called heartbeat bills.
But what exactly do we mean when we talk about a "fetal heartbeat" at six weeks of pregnancy? Although some people might picture a heart-shaped organ beating inside a fetus, this is not the case.

Keep reading: https://www.livescience.com/65501-fe...explained.html

[Mr. Wizard]

But for the advances in ultrasound technology, docs would not be able to hear what is referred to as a "heartbeat." Actually, it's just cells learning to "fire," as there is no actual heart at 6 wks. As increasing numbers of states pass "heartbeat" legislation, I can't help but think how much better off we'd all be if the government stopped dictating what women can and can not do with their own bodies.

[Maurya]

Thank you Mr Wizard!

[Islander]

"I can't help but think how much better off we'd all be if the government stopped dictating what women can and can not do with their own bodies."
A handful of states have drafted draconian legislation that they hope will prompt a review of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court. Keep in mind that state legislators are primarily men, whose intent is to control women. Also keep in mind that despite the change in the balance of the Supreme Court, currently three women serve on it.

[Mr. Wizard]

Agree, men primarily control state legislatures. But, they have wives, daughters, mothers, aunties, godmothers, girlfriends, etc......baffling how men can be so nonchalant about women's rights!