A Doppler is the device used during an ultrasound to measure the baby’s heartbeat. It uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through a blood vessel. Getting a Doppler ultrasound enables expecting mothers to make sure their baby is all right. But seeing the ultrasound, and hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time can also be a wonderful bonding experience with the baby. It’s tangible evidence that there is really a living little person in there, and the weight gain and discomfort hasn’t all been for nothing.
For a long time, Dopplers were only available to hospitals for this purpose. But expecting mothers began to want home Dopplers for a variety of reasons. Some mothers who are older or who have health conditions that may affect the baby get a Doppler so they can be sure the baby is okay at all times. Other mothers may have no particular reason to worry, but still want to be able to have the knowledge of their baby’s safety.
During pregnancy, the hormone composition of the woman alters drastically, which creates the well known mood swings, but some women may also become more anxious. Having a Doppler during pregnancy can help alleviate fears, however irrational they may be. Finally, some women enjoy the bonding experience a Doppler brings and want to be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat more often than they can through their doctor appointments alone. Women also use the Doppler to share this experience with their husband, children, or other loved ones. If the husband for some reason cannot be at the ultrasound, he can have the same experience at home with the Doppler, or if he is out of town the baby’s heartbeat may be taped with an at home Doppler so the husband can hear their baby as well.
A baby Doppler will also help the siblings to become used to the idea of having a new baby around. Sibling jealousy is often a big problem for new mothers. Many children do not really understand what is going on until the baby has arrived. Even if the mother tries to explain, the child may feel disbelief or confusion. A Doppler gives tangible proof of the baby. If a sibling is allowed to listen to the baby via Doppler, he will not only be convinced that the baby in there is a real person, he may also experience a sense of closeness to it. He will grow comfortable with the idea of a new baby.
Dopplers are hand-held and convenient to use. You can check up on your baby from your own home, any time you like, if you have a home Doppler. When you’re expecting a baby, there are a lot of things to think and worry about, and you have a lot to do. Your baby Doppler can at least take one concern off your mind.
A Doppler is also a great gift for an expectant friend or relative. They’re great for baby shower gifts because they are original, and everyone will want one. New moms receive tons of baby clothes, bibs, and other paraphernalia that they may or may not use, but few of them receive Dopplers, or are even aware that home Dopplers are available. If you want to get an expecting friend a great baby shower present, consider a baby Doppler.
By Riannon Cutler