Product & Features
What is the HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler? The HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler is an FDA-cleared home fetal heart monitor by SonoHealth. It uses 2.5 MHz ultrasound technology to detect and amplify your baby’s heartbeat, displaying the BPM on an LCD screen. Price: $69. What frequency does it use? The HeartBeats™ probe operates at 2.5 MHz — the same frequency used in clinical OB/GYN handheld dopplers. This frequency provides optimal penetration for abdominal fetal heart detection throughout pregnancy. Is it FDA cleared? Yes. The HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler is FDA cleared as a Class II medical device. What does the device include? The device includes the HeartBeats™ handheld doppler unit with probe and LCD display, plus ultrasound gel. If you run out, additional ultrasound gel can be purchased at any pharmacy.Usage
When can I start using it? Most users can detect the fetal heartbeat starting at 12–14 weeks of pregnancy. Detection before 12 weeks is possible but inconsistent, as the uterus is still within the pelvis. How do I use the HeartBeats™? Apply ultrasound gel to your lower abdomen, place the probe just above the pubic bone at a 45-degree angle, and slowly move it while listening for the rapid, rhythmic fetal heartbeat (110–160 BPM). See the full How to Use guide. How often can I use it? Brief sessions (5–10 minutes) once or twice daily are appropriate for most of pregnancy. There is no medical evidence of harm from intermittent, brief use at home doppler power levels. Do I need ultrasound gel? Yes. Ultrasound gel is necessary for proper signal transmission between the probe and skin. Lotions and oils are not substitutes and will produce poor results.Heart Rate & Readings
What is a normal fetal heart rate? A normal fetal heart rate is 110–160 BPM. See the Normal Ranges guide for a week-by-week breakdown. I’m getting a reading of 65–80 BPM — is that normal? That is your heartbeat, not your baby’s. The maternal pulse and uterine artery sounds are common when searching with a doppler. Reposition the probe and look for the faster signal (110–160 BPM) with the distinctive galloping rhythm. The BPM on the screen is jumping around — is something wrong? Erratic readings are usually caused by probe movement or baby movement. Hold the probe steadier, add more gel, and wait for the reading to stabilize.Safety
Is it safe to use during pregnancy? Yes. The HeartBeats™ device is FDA cleared and operates at low power levels that have been used safely in obstetric care since the 1970s. No adverse effects have been documented from consumer fetal doppler use at normal session durations. See Safety for full details. Can I use it every day? Brief sessions (5–10 minutes) once daily are considered safe by medical consensus. Avoid extended continuous use.Troubleshooting
I can’t find the heartbeat — is something wrong? Before 12 weeks, inability to detect the heartbeat is normal. After 12 weeks, difficulty finding it may be due to probe placement, baby position, insufficient gel, or technique. Try again tomorrow. If you have persistent concerns, contact your OB. I found it before but can’t find it now Babies are mobile. Position changes are the most common explanation. Try moving the probe in a wider search pattern. This is rarely a cause for concern.Purchasing
How much does HeartBeats™ cost? $69 at SonoHealth.com and on Amazon. What is the warranty? 2-year warranty on all HeartBeats™ devices. What is the return policy? 60-day returns. SonoHealth covers return shipping and provides a full refund.Special Situations
Can the HeartBeats™ doppler detect twins? A home fetal doppler is not a reliable way to detect or confirm twins. It is very difficult to distinguish two separate fetal heartbeats at home — a sound that seems like a second heartbeat is usually the same baby heard from another angle, an echo, or your own pulse. Only an ultrasound performed by your provider can confirm a multiple pregnancy. Use the doppler for reassurance, not to count or diagnose babies. Will an anterior placenta make it harder to find the heartbeat? Possibly. With an anterior placenta (one positioned on the front wall of the uterus), the placenta can muffle the signal and make the heartbeat harder or slower to find, especially in the early weeks — it does not mean anything is wrong. Be patient, use plenty of gel, and search low and slightly off-center just above the pubic bone, trying again in a few days as your pregnancy progresses. If you still can’t find it after about 16 weeks or have concerns, contact your provider.Related: How to Use · Safety · Normal Heart Rates