Dopplers

A Doppler is a handheld ultrasound transducer that is used to hear the heartbeat of a baby in the womb. The detection of foetal heartbeat serves as a large part of prenatal care, whereby the Doppler provides an audible simulation of embryo or foetus’s heartbeat. Dopplers are defined by probe type, with the most common being waterproof or non-waterproof (with waterproof specifically designed for water births). The two most common probe frequencies are 2-MHz or 3-MHz, while 5-MHz transvaginal probes help aid in detection of foetal heart tones in very early in pregnancy (as early as 6 weeks). Dopplers are commonly used by nurses, midwives, doctors, and fertility clinics – however, they are also popular for personal home use.