How to Use Dopplers

Here is an example of a digital doppler.

When a woman finds out she is having a baby, she often finds herself worrying whether or not her baby will be OK. In earlier times, women would have to wait to go to the obstetrician to find out if the unborn baby was doing well. The highlight of the visit would be when the obstetrician found the baby's heartbeat with a Doppler. Dopplers no longer are only for doctors. Pregnant women can rent or buy them for use at home to bond with their baby and feel reassured by hearing their child's heartbeat.

Things You'll Need

• Doppler
• Connections
• Batteries
• Pillow
• Bed or couch
• Ultrasound gel

Instructions

How to Use Dopplers

1. Make sure the Doppler is connected properly, otherwise the Doppler will not function correctly. Insert the cord into the hand piece. Once that is connected, insert the other end into the main unit.

2. Insert the batteries. Depending on the kind of Doppler you have you might have to unscrew the back unit to place the batteries inside. Other units have an easily removable battery cover. Remove the cover and insert the batteries. Typically, you can find a diagram that illustrates correct battery placement on the inside of the battery cover.

3. Find a comfortable place to lie down. Make sure you have at least one pillow to place under your head to prop you up. You must be on a relatively flat surface. The best place to lie is a bed. However, if necessary, a couch will work as long as you can comfortably lie flat.

4. Apply the gel to your abdomen. Before turning on the Doppler, use the hand piece to spread the gel onto your belly. Doing this when the unit is off is easier because it doesn't make as much noise.

5. Locate the baby's heart rate. Turn on the Doppler and slowly move the hand piece over your belly. Depending on where you are in your pregnancy, the location of the heart beat will be different. Early in your pregnancy you will find the heart rate near or below your pubic bone. Later in your pregnancy you will find the heart beat below your belly button. The sound of your baby's heart beat will resemble a galloping horse and will be very fast. Once you find the heart rate, listen for a minute or so and turn off your Doppler.

Tips & Warnings

• If you run out of expensive ultrasound gel, you can use lubricating gel or jelly instead.

• Don't rent a Doppler without consenting with your obstetrician first. While you can rent them on your own, the FDA does require a physician's consent.