Portable Fetal Doppler
The coming of babies is always a joy, especially for parents. So every mom and dad would like to make the best preparations for this happy occasion. One of the best devices to own in expecting this bundle of joy is a Doppler.
A Doppler, also called a doptone, is alike a stethoscope, except it makes use of ultrasound to detect the fetal heart beat. The fetal heartbeat is audible when the Doppler is used during the 10th to 12th week of pregnancy. The purpose of the Doppler is to insure that the baby in the womb is healthy and thriving.
How to use this device:
* The best position for mommy is lying down and exposing her tummy; this is also possible while in a sitting or standing position.
* Apply a small amount of ultrasound gel to the tummy.
* Angle the probe slowly to search for the fetal heart beat.
The ultrasound gel is specially formulated to act as a coupling agent and reduce the static that is often caused when using a Doppler. Do not use colored gel, lotions or oil-based substance for it causes excess static and may damage the Doppler probe.
Prior to the 10th week, there will be no sound or very faint sound detected. Do not drag the probe on the tummy as it increases the static and makes it more difficult to detect the heart beat.
The fetal Doppler is sometimes used as early as the 8th week but the sound is barely heard. But at the 12th week of pregnancy, the fetal’s beat is 95% audible.
The advantage of the portable fetal Doppler is the ease it can be carried around. Using two AA batteries, you do not need any electric connection. It is light in weight, safe and easy to clean. Parents are able to check regularly the fetus’ heartbeat and if something is amiss, a visit to the hospital can be immediately arranged. If heartbeat is irregular, there might be an abnormality or oxygen deprivation.
In a high risk pregnancy, the Doppler is used as early as the 2nd trimester in low risk pregnancy; it is used at the 3rd trimester and during labor.
The portable fetal Doppler you purchase comes with its own probe, battery, ultra-sound gel and some models are even equipped with a case. Prices are variable based on brand and features. The best kind is expensive but it is both durable and efficient.