Safety Tips in Using a Doppler

If a new parent gifted a doppler, you'd want to learn how to use it properly. This article will cover all the basics, from avoiding scams to checking your baby's heart health.

Operating the device correctly

A Doppler is a portable device that helps healthcare professionals monitor the baby's heartbeat. It is typically used during a doctor's visit to check the baby's health. But you can use a Doppler at home as well. Before using one at home, one must understand how the device works and how to avoid possible problems.

First, you should know that not all Dopplers are created equal. Some of the more advanced models require medical training to operate correctly. In addition, some devices can confuse the mother's heartbeat, resulting in strange readings. So it's essential to be sure that your device is high quality.

You should also be aware that listening to the baby's heartbeat is not recommended until you are at least 14 weeks pregnant. However, some women can hear their babies' heartbeats as early as nine weeks. That said, it's still best to consult a doctor before listening to the heartbeat with a handheld Doppler.

Avoiding scams

You must understand how to spot the cons if you want to get a fetal doppler for your pregnancy. Doppler sales can be risky, mainly when done online. Be sure to only buy fetal dopplers from reputable retailers like Cradle Me Baby to avoid any issues. Before purchasing, research the vendors, read customer reviews, and compare pricing.

There are a few red flags you should look out for, such as counterfeit personalized products, deals that seem too good to be true, and fake coupons. Also, be wary of companies that require payment through a credit card or PayPal, as these may be scams. 

Scammers may also contact you by phone or text, and they might ask for your personal information. Never give a stranger your phone number, email address, or physical address, even if the spiel seems legit.

The best way to avoid a scam is to learn about the scams and how to report them. Most cons have two primary goals. First, they want to steal your money, and second, they want to get your personal information.

Detecting a baby's heart health

Dopplers are ultrasound devices used to detect the heart health of a baby. They are also helpful for women who are having high-risk pregnancies. But how do you know if a doppler is safe to use?

You should consult a healthcare provider before using a doppler. Your OBGYN can verify whether a doppler is safe to use. There are also a few safety tips to keep in mind when using a doppler for hearing your baby's heartbeat.

First, you will need to find a private spot to lie down. The best position for a doppler to hear your baby's fetal heartbeat is below the pubic bone. It is the location where most babies are located during pregnancy. If you have difficulty finding the right place, try to switch positions.

Make sure you clean the probe after each use. If you use too much gel, you may create air bubbles. It may also make it challenging to find the baby's heartbeat.

Photo by olia danilevich