Fetal Heartbeat: When Can You Feel It & What to Expect

Question
At 3 mths pregnant, should i be able to feel my baby's heartbeat or do I need something?

Answer
Hello Amy- before I address your question, you need to find some GOOD prenatal classes and books. Read- Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon, The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth by Sheila Kitzinger. Find your nearest Bradley classes and get signed up NOW- they have a website. Now, your question- you will NEVER "feel" your baby's heartbeat. Are you asking me if you should be able to HEAR it? Only with a fetoscope- a special stethoscope- would you be able to hear it, or the doppler at the dr.'s office. However, you must remember that the doppler uses ultrasound and u/s can be harmful to the baby. I only use a doppler during labor and even then for only a very short listen. You will begin to FEEL the baby move when you about 20 weeks along- another 8 weeks or so for you. I hope that answers your question- Cheri.