At-home fetal dopplers use low-intensity ultrasound — they don’t emit radiation or heat when used sensibly. Keep sessions short, space them out, and always follow your midwife or doctor’s advice.
Safety guidance for at-home dopplers
Midwife-led advice. For reassurance only — not a diagnostic device.
Evidence over marketing
We follow clinical guidance and best practice for home use.
Short, spaced sessions
Keep the probe moving; avoid long holds on one spot.
Your wellbeing first
If movements change or you’re worried, call your midwife — don’t rely on a gadget.
Do
- Limit sessions to a few minutes
- Use gel for clear sound
- Stop if you feel discomfort
- Call your midwife if movement patterns change
Don’t
- Don’t use as a diagnostic tool
- Don’t keep the probe on one spot for long
- Don’t replace appointments or scans
- Don’t panic if you can’t find a heartbeat early on
Quick safety checklist
- Read the manual before first use
- Clean the probe before/after each session
- Use Day/Night mode to avoid straining eyes
- Store away from children
Call your midwife if...
- You notice reduced fetal movements
- You have bleeding, pain, fever or feel unwell
- You cannot find a heartbeat and you’re worried
1
Read the manual
Follow the model’s safety instructions and trimester guidance.
2
Use gel & gentle pressure
Better contact means shorter sessions and clearer sound.
Safety snapshot (guidance targets)
Session length
Probe movement (keep moving)
Breaks between uses
Meters are guidance only and not medical thresholds.
Do Dopplers use radiation?
No. They use low-intensity ultrasound. Used briefly and correctly, they do not emit radiation or heat.
Information here is educational. It does not replace personalised medical advice. If you’re worried, contact your healthcare provider.