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The HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler is SonoHealth’s FDA-cleared home fetal heart rate monitor. Using 2.5 MHz ultrasound technology, it allows expectant parents to listen to and monitor their baby’s heartbeat from the comfort of home, typically starting around week 12 of pregnancy.

At a Glance

What a Fetal Doppler Does

A fetal doppler uses ultrasound technology to detect the movement of the baby’s heartbeat and convert it into an audible sound and digital BPM reading. Unlike clinical-grade cardiotocography (CTG) machines used in hospitals, home fetal dopplers are designed for reassurance and bonding — not for medical diagnosis. The HeartBeats™ device emits 2.5 MHz ultrasound waves through a handheld probe. When the probe is placed on the abdomen and the sound waves reflect off the moving fetal heart, the Doppler shift in the returned signal is processed into an audio output and a beats-per-minute reading on the LCD display.

Key Features

  • 2.5 MHz probe — The ideal frequency for detecting fetal heartbeats from week 12+. Lower frequencies (1–2 MHz) penetrate deeper but lose sensitivity at the abdominal surface. Higher frequencies have lower penetration. 2.5 MHz is the optimal balance for home use.
  • FDA Cleared — Cleared by the FDA as a Class II medical device. This is a higher regulatory bar than uncleared consumer electronics that may claim similar functionality.
  • Digital LCD display — Shows real-time beats per minute, allowing you to track and record your baby’s heart rate.
  • Audible heartbeat — Listen to your baby’s heartbeat through a speaker or headphone jack.
  • Compact and portable — Designed for home use with a simple, handheld form factor.

Who Uses the HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler

  • First-time parents seeking reassurance and connection between OB appointments
  • Anxious pregnancies — particularly common in pregnancies following loss (rainbow babies), IVF pregnancies, or high-risk pregnancies with more emotional monitoring needs
  • Subsequent pregnancies — experienced parents who want to involve siblings in the experience
  • Midwives and doulas — some use home dopplers as supplementary tools during at-home visits

What It Does NOT Do

The HeartBeats™ Fetal Doppler is a consumer reassurance device, not a clinical diagnostic tool. It:
  • Does NOT replace regular OB appointments or clinical NST (non-stress tests)
  • Does NOT detect placental complications, cord issues, or growth restriction
  • Does NOT diagnose fetal distress
  • Should NOT be used to replace medical attention when movement is reduced or other symptoms are present
If you experience reduced fetal movement, absence of fetal movement, or any pregnancy concern, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not rely on a home doppler to rule out fetal distress.

Compare and Choose

Not sure how a home doppler compares to the alternatives, or which one fits your situation? These guides help you decide:

Where to Buy

Available at SonoHealth.com for $69. Includes a 60-day return guarantee and 2-year warranty.
Related: How It Works · Safety · How to Use · When to Use · Fetal Doppler vs Baby Heartbeat Apps