Variations in your baby's heart rate are normal and are a good thing. If they fall below 70 bpm and this fall lasts for longer than one minute, that's when you can worry. Your baby's heart rate SHOULD show variations from 110-180. This means that the baby is having normal waking and sleep cycles.

The doppler will not harm your baby but I would be more concerned that having it is making you more anxious.

Stillbirths DO happen but they are not as common as you think. If you are worried because your baby is not active or moving around as much as you think that he should, you can try drinking a soda and see if that perks him up. If not, a visit to your OB would be a good idea.

Let me know if you have more questions!

Hi Ellie

Stillbirth is actually quite rare. Approximately 6 babies die out of 1000 births. This includes babies that die from stillbirth as well as SIDS after birth. That is very good numbers!

source

According to THIS ARTICLE there has been no evidence that home dopplers are unsafe or have caused harm to a baby. It also highly recommends that you use it according to package instructions.

As Lindie said above, your baby's heart rate will fluctuate. And from the sounds of it, your baby is very healthy.

It can fluctuate based on where you are holding the machine too.

You know, women have had babies for years without all these gismo's and gadgets. Your worry is normal. All expectant mom's worry.

Try to enjoy this time too! It's an exciting time for you! And perhaps you can make a deal with those around you, and only do the doppler once a day?

If you are EVER worried, you can call your doctors office. They are there to help you as well, and they will call you back.

I hope this helps!

Kerry

RN, worked in OB for 3 years, and many other areas.