Towards the end of the first trimester, it becomes possible to use a fetal doppler to hear the heartbeat of an unborn baby. For many women, hearing this miraculous sound only during prenatal checkups is not enough. Purchasing a fetal doppler allows expectant mothers to check on their baby from their own home anytime they like. Furthermore, buying a fetal doppler is a straightforward process that can be done with just a few simple steps.
Step 1
Make a doctor's appointment. The FDA classifies fetal dopplers as prescriptive devices, so you will need a prescription from your doctor to purchase one. While you are at your doctor's appointment, ask about the risks involved with using a fetal doppler and for recommendations about how often and how long you should use the unit.
Step 2
Decide where to make your purchase. Many hospitals and baby stores will sell fetal dopplers, but sometimes it may be less expensive to purchase one online. Some popular online options include storkradio.com, sweetbeats.net and babybeat.com. No matter where you decide to make your purchase, ensure that the doppler is FDA approved. Consider the return policies for each store as well.
Step 3
Compare the different models of fetal dopplers. If possible, find online reviews of specific models to get feedback from other consumers. Compare both the features as the difference in price when deciding which fetal doppler to purchase.
Step 4
Purchase the fetal doppler. If purchasing online, this typically includes clicking on the model you have selecting to add it to your online shopping cart and following the onscreen instructions to enter your billing and shipping information.
Tips and Warnings
- It may be helpful to see if your doctor is willing to show you which area of your abdomen to focus on to find the heartbeat yourself as well as offering any tips on how to use the doppler device itself.
- Locating a fetal heartbeat with a doppler can be difficult before the 12th week of pregnancy, according to Dr. Marjorie Greenfield, an expert medical advisor for the online website drspock.com. To avoid unnecessary worry, it may be better to wait until after the 12th week of pregnancy when the heartbeat can be found more consistently to make your purchase. Frequent use of a fetal doppler may potentially harm your unborn child. Educate yourself about the potential risks before deciding if buying a fetal doppler is right for you.
