Introduction
Home fetal monitors gained popularity among expectant parents before medical experts issued warnings and authorities implemented a ban. The primary concern with these devices is their potential to provide misleading information without professional training, leading to dangerous misinterpretations. In August 2025, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia banned the sale of these monitors; however, they remain available for purchase online.
How Fetal Monitors Work
Fetal monitors, also known as fetal dopplers, are handheld devices used by medical professionals to detect a baby's heartbeat, typically from 10-12 weeks of pregnancy. Craig Pennell, chair of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Newcastle, explained that these devices utilize soundwaves, similar to an ultrasound, based on the Doppler principle. A transducer on the mother's abdomen emits soundwaves that reflect at a different frequency when encountering movement, such as blood flow, allowing the heart rate to be determined. Experts state that home fetal dopplers operate on the same frequency as medical-grade devices but are less reliable and cheaper. Some versions can synchronize with phone applications.
Reasons for the Ban
The TGA banned home-use fetal monitors following advice from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and the Advisory Committee for Medical Devices. These bodies concluded that the risks associated with the devices outweighed any benefits. Scott White, RANZCOG's research, policy and guidelines chair, clarified that the devices are not inherently dangerous, but their improper use by the public is problematic. Untrained users may mistakenly detect the mother's heartbeat instead of the fetus's, or rely on the heartbeat as a sole indicator of fetal wellbeing. Dr. White reported instances where parents, concerned about reduced fetal movement, used these monitors for reassurance instead of seeking a thorough medical assessment, which resulted in adverse outcomes, including infant death. Groups like the Stillbirth Centre for Research Excellence oppose home doppler use, citing no evidence of improved pregnancy outcomes and an increased risk due to false reassurance and delayed medical care.
Concerns with Kick Counting Apps
Online apps designed for counting fetal kicks and monitoring movement also raise concerns. Nisha Khot, RANZCOG president, indicated that these apps can create a false sense of security, potentially deterring parents from seeking professional medical advice when issues are suspected. Dr. Khot emphasized that understanding a baby's individual movement pattern is more important than achieving a set number of movements. Dr. White added that changes in the pattern, number, or type of movements are key indicators that require attention.
Regulation and Availability
Despite the Australian ban, home fetal monitors are still advertised and available for purchase online by Australian consumers. The TGA stated it collaborates with digital platforms to filter or remove listings containing prohibited keywords or claims.
Regarding kick-counting apps, the TGA initially advised they should be considered medical devices due to their intent to prevent fetal harm. Medical devices in Australia require registration on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). However, the TGA later updated its advice, stating that general kick-count apps are not considered medical devices and do not require ARTG inclusion, while still urging parents not to rely on them. Apps that make medical claims, monitor fetal health, diagnose issues, or alert users to potential pregnancy concerns are still classified as medical devices and require ARTG registration. The specific criteria for this category remain under clarification, with some apps offering "built-in guidance" to identify changes.
Seeking Reassurance
Nisha Khot advises expectant parents experiencing anxiety about their baby's wellbeing to consult their healthcare provider. She stressed the importance of discussing specific anxieties—whether related to movements, growth, or other concerns—to develop a suitable management plan. Scott White acknowledged a current market gap for home-based reassurance tools that do not escalate issues without medical guidance. He noted that more advanced home monitoring systems, capable of thorough assessments, are under development and may be available within five years. Until such technologies are widely accessible, medical consultation is recommended for any parental concerns.