DopFone is a new mobile app that lets pregnant people monitor a fetal heartbeat at home between doctor visits. The app aims to give reassurance and extra data for people who worry about their baby’s health.
The app uses the phone speaker to send a low sound and then listens for signals from the belly. A researcher at Georgia Tech developed the idea after he and his wife had two miscarriages. A student who helped with the project is working with the University of Washington to run the first clinical trials.
Early tests showed readings close to clinic tools. Researchers say a doctor should recommend the app and that it should not replace clinic care. They also warn the tool could increase anxiety for some users.
Difficult words
- monitor — watch or check something over time
- reassurance — feeling of less worry or fear
- clinical trial — test of a medical device or treatmentclinical trials
- miscarriage — loss of a pregnancy before birthmiscarriages
- anxiety — strong worry or nervous feeling
- researcher — person who studies or investigates facts
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you feel reassured using an app to check a baby’s heartbeat? Why or why not?
- What problems could happen if people use the app without a doctor's advice?
- Do you think home monitoring should be followed by clinic visits? Explain.
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