Doppler FAQ's

What is a Fetal Heart Doppler?

A Fetal Heart Doppler uses low frequency ultrasound waves which bounce off tissue and blood in the body. This information is then translated by the software into the sounds of the baby's heart and movements. In a sense it uses waves in a similar way to dolphins and bats. A Fetal Heart Doppler enables you to listen to your baby's heartbeat at anytime, soothing your worries and allowing you and your family to bond with your baby during your pregnancy.

What is a Fetal Heart Display Doppler?

A Fetal Heart Display Doppler also enables you to listen to your baby's heartbeat at anytime, but in addition it comes with more advanced electronics that give you your unborn baby’s heart rate without the need to count and calculate.

Are First Beats Fetal Heart Dopplers safe to use?

Dopplers have been in daily use around the world now for over 30 years and it is estimated that there are tens of thousands of Dopplers in use everyday. Extensive testing by Australian and overseas government and non government organisations have shown no adverse effects to the mother or unborn baby from Doppler ultrasound. Further to this, The Australian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine had this to say about continuous wave Dopplers like First Beats Dopplers:


"Diagnostic devices emitting continuous wave Doppler ultrasound are used to monitor fetal and neonatal heartbeat. This equipment emits low power levels and its use is not contra-indicated on safety grounds, even when applied for extended periods."


However the technology behind ultrasound scanning is complicated and it's important to remember that this is research that was based on the work of health professionals who have training and guidance for its use. While currently there is currently no evidence available that dopplers are harnful in any way, there is also no research available to show the effects of a mother using a doppler to listen to her baby two or three times a day thoughout her pregnany. Therefore we recommend you do not use this device more than once or twice a day and for no more than a few minutes a day.


First Beats Dopplers are made to the highest safety standards and have been approved by the Federal Department of Health's Therapeutic Goods Administration. Like any medical device, a First Beats Doppler should only be used for the purpose intended, that is the reassurance and peace of mind of you and your partner.

What if I can’t hear a heartbeat or can't tell whether the heartbeat is the baby's or mine?

Please refer to our Tips on using the First Beats Fetal Doppler.

Do I need special lotion or ultrasound gel with the Doppler?

You'll receive one 60 gm. tube of ultrasound gel when you receive your First Beats Doppler. You can also order a 250 ml squeeze pack of ultrasound gel with your Doppler for an additional $10. Alternatively you can try a water based personal lubricant gel. However for best results, we recommend you use the ultrasound gel.

How long will it take for me to receive my First Beats Fetal Doppler or other First Beats product?

If your order is placed with First Beats by 2PM Sydney Time, then your First Beats Fetal Doppler or product will be shipped by Express courier that day. Otherwise it will be shipped the next business day. Delivery within Australia is almost always the next business day.

How does the Doppler rental billing system work?

By placing an order for a First Beats Doppler, you authorise us to debit your credit card with the first month's rental fee, plus a non-refundable delivery and return fee. This first payment will be charged on the date the First Beats Doppler is shipped to you. Then each month on that date, your card will be charged until the unit is returned or the purchase price of the Doppler is paid in full.

Do I have to register with a Third Party company to make my payments?

No. At First Beats there is no need to join and supply personal details to a Third Party payment organisation.

Are my details safe with First Beats?

Yes. First Beats uses its own encrypted SSL security system and hosts it through another encrypted SSL host server. This provides greater security as your data can not be read by anyone other than ourselves.

Will my rental fees apply if I decide to buy the First Beats Doppler?

Yes, all rental fees will apply directly towards the purchase price.

Is there a minimum rental period required on a First Beats Fetal Doppler?

Yes, the minimum period is one month.

Is there a maximum rental period required on a First Beats Fetal Doppler?

There is no maximum rental period. However, we recommend that if you intend using the Doppler for an extended period, you might like to look at purchasing the unit.