Fetal dopplers are medical instruments used to monitor the heartbeat of your unborn child. These devices send out high-frequency sound waves that reach through your skin and into your baby. The waves are bounced back when they come across another movement, like your baby’s heartbeat. The device then translates the movement into sound and you’re able to hear the heartbeat. You are probably used to a similar instrument being used during your routine checkups at the doctor’s office.

Traveling Fetal Doppler

Handheld fetal dopplers are becoming largely known across Europe, and many people wonder if there are risks involving using these machines on your own. While there have been no studies to prove whether or not this device can cause harm to your newborn, there are no known side effects of using this instrument.

The only issue with using these instruments is that the machine picks up on every sound, of your own body as well, and if you’re unfamiliar with this medical device, it may be difficult for you to find your baby’s heartbeat on your own. These machines are meant for trained professional use, and can cause added anxiety if you use it incorrectly and are unable to find the sound you are looking for.

Fetal dopplers at home

Although not recommended to use without a medical professional present, these instruments can put you at ease, are convenient for checking up on your baby, and can give you a special type of bond with your baby before birth.