To a mother-to-be, no other sound is sweeter to hear than their baby’s own heartbeat. Listening to a little’s one heartbeat for the first time is a treasured and memorable moment of pregnancy. For this reason, a fetal doppler is a handheld ultrasonic tool that allows expectant mothers to check and listen to a fetal heartbeat.

Heartbeat detection begins around the end of the first trimester, typically at 12 weeks. An obstetrician or midwife can use a fetal doppler to safely detect and monitor the baby’s heart rate and movement patterns during prenatal visits. Using this medical device successfully may take a little practice and knowledge of the right approach. Let’s take a closer look at three must-know tips for finding fetal heartbeat with a doppler.

Apply Ample Ultrasound Gel for Probing

Ultrasound gel plays a vital role in the heartbeat monitoring process, especially for sophisticated, medical-grade dopplers. As follows, the right application technique is key to act as a necessary lubricant to conduct sound waves and amplify the heart’s pitter-patter. An adequate amount of gel is essential to reduce static output and ease the process of precise pulse detection.

Be mindful about where you apply the doppler gel as well. The ideal place is directly on the probe’s surface at the end of the monitor. Then, the probe can spread the gel around in the correct area of the abdomen as you move the device.

Remember To Start Low and Move Slow

Finding a fetal heartbeat with a doppler is all about correct positioning. For this reason, remembering to begin low and go slow is one of our must-know tips for the best result. Be mindful that the further along a woman is in her pregnancy, the higher the position of the baby will be.

Ergo, the mother-to-be must be sitting down, with the uterus in a forward position. Start below the belly button and closer to the pubic bone earlier on, using a rocking motion to move the probe along the lower abdomen. Move slowly upward, with minuscule movements, until you hear a heartbeat. Once you reach an angle closer to the source, the doppler will amplify the sound.

Stay Calm and Maintain Patience

The key to this prenatal detection and monitoring process is always peaceful persistence. If desired results aren’t found right away, remain calm and keep trying. Different fetal positioning may call for different angles and approaches. Sometimes, a baby isn’t lying in an optimal position, is directly blocking the probe’s angle, or simply can’t sit still. Utilizing a top-quality and highly-sensitive doppler can prove most advantageous.

Cascade Health Care provides a selection of medical-grade tools and supplies, including a handheld fetal doppler for sale. Our professional dopplers are fast, accurate, and sensitive, making them suitable for basic testing and further monitoring. Learn more about our facility and at-home health care products on our website today.