The Negative Effects of a Fetal Doppler
A fetal doppler is used to monitor the heart rate of an unborn baby. Fetal dopplers enable you to hear your baby's heart rate at about 8 weeks gestational age. The fetal doppler uses ultrasonic waves to capture the sound the baby's heart makes. This is transmitted into a frequency you can hear. The actual sound you hear is not the baby's heartbeat but a reproduction based upon the movement of the heart.
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Negative Effects
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There have been no reports of any negative effects on the baby or the mother with the use of a fetal doppler. Because it is non-invasive, it is considered completely safe to use throughout the pregnancy. As with any type of medical device, it is recommended that you discuss the purchase or rental of a fetal doppler with your obstetrician.
Benefits
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The use of a fetal doppler to monitor the baby's heartbeat can be especially comforting to a nervous parent. Being able to hear the heartbeat can bring comfort and decrease the stress of the pregnancy; this has been especially useful in situations where a mother has had a difficult pregnancy before. The use of a fetal doppler also can enhance the bonding experience, especially for the baby's father, as it allows him to be more aware of how his baby is developing.
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Drawbacks
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Some doctors worry that a fetal doppler may be used too excessively. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that fetal dopplers be used sparingly. Doctors also worry that the use of a fetal doppler may cause the parents to ignore possible signs of distress in the fetus. Also, some dopplers are cheaply made and give poor-quality monitoring, which could increase the anxiety of the parents.
Quality and Price
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Medical grade fetal dopplers are by far the best for monitoring the fetal heartbeat, but they also are the most expensive. Less expensive fetal dopplers may be more affordable but also may not provide good sound quality. Also if the heartbeat becomes weak, it may not be able to pick it up at all. Fetal dopplers can range in price from about $50 to $450 as of August 2009.
Obtaining a Fetal Doppler
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A prescription is not necessary to obtain a fetal doppler, but you should consult your physician before obtaining one. Fetal dopplers may be rented or purchased, and insurance does not pay for them, except in extreme cases when home monitoring is necessary due to complications. If it is your first baby and you plan to have more, it may be more economical to buy a unit; otherwise, it may be better to rent one for the duration, or a portion, of the pregnancy.
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