Short answer: Both use ultrasound, but differently. A handheld fetal doppler turns heartbeat movement into sound. An ultrasound scan creates images that trained professionals use to check on your baby. A home doppler is for hearing the heartbeat, not for medical checks.
Sound vs image
A doppler listens for movement and plays it as sound, often with a BPM number. Nooliva's home doppler uses a 3 MHz probe and a small speaker so you can listen together. An ultrasound scan builds a picture of your baby, the placenta and more.
Who uses each
Ultrasound scans are done and interpreted by trained professionals as part of your prenatal care. Handheld dopplers are used in clinics too; home versions are designed so moms can listen between appointments.
Safety
Health authorities, including the FDA, advise against using fetal dopplers at home and recommend prudent use of ultrasound. If you choose to use one, keep sessions short and use the doppler for connection only. Read our honest answer on home doppler safety.
New to dopplers? Start with what a fetal doppler is and how it works, then our step-by-step guide to using a fetal doppler at home. Everything you need is in our at-home fetal doppler kit.
If you're ever worried, call your healthcare provider.
Not a substitute for prenatal care.