Doppler Pregnancy Test.

My friend told me about a special stethoscope that my doctor will use to let me hear my baby's heartbeat. What is it?
You're probably referring to a doppler. It is not actually a stethoscope. It magnifies the sound of the baby's heartbeat so you can hear it.

When will I be able to hear the baby's heartbeat?
Around the 12-week visit. If your doctor doesn't offer it to you, ask about it.
Tests that Use Radiation

I'm concerned about having tests that use radiation during my pregnancy. Can they hurt my baby?
Avoid exposure to X-rays during pregnancy, unless it is an emergency. There is no known safe amount of radiation for a developing fetus. Dangers to the baby include an increased risk of birth defects and an increased risk of cancer later in life.

I have to go to the dentist next week. Should I let them X-ray my teeth?
If possible, avoid dental X-rays while you're pregnant. If you must have a dental X-ray, be sure your abdomen and pelvis are completely shielded by a lead apron.

What should I do if I break my leg and need an X-ray while I'm pregnant?
There are medical reasons for X-rays, but the need for the X-ray must be weighed against the risk to your pregnancy. If you have injured your foot or hand, it is fairly easy to shield the uterus with a lead apron while the area is X-rayed. However, if your injury is in your back or any place near the pelvic area, the risks increase. Discuss it with your doctor before having any X-rays.

Are there any other reasons to do an X-ray during pregnancy?
Some problems, other than broken bones, may require X-rays. Pneumonia and appendicitis are two possibilities. Again, discuss the situation with your doctor.

What about CT scans are they the same as X-rays?
Computerized tomographic scans, also called CT scans and CAT scans, are a form of specialized X-ray. The technique involves the use of X-ray with computer analysis. Many researchers believe the amount of radiation received from a CT scan is much lower than a regular X-ray. However, it is probably wise to avoid even this amount of exposure, if possible.

When is the fetus most susceptible to the harmful effects of radiation from X-rays?
Risk to a fetus appears to be the greatest between 8 and 15 weeks of pregnancy (between the fetal age of 6 and 13 weeks). Some believe the only safe amount of radiation exposure for a fetus is no exposure.

I've heard about a test called MRI. Is it the same as an X-ray?
No. Magnetic resonance imaging, also called MRI, is a diagnostic tool widely used today. At this time, no harmful effects in pregnancy have been reported from its use, but pregnant women are advised to avoid an MRI during the 1st trimester of pregnancy for the safety of the fetus.
A new ultra-fast MRI may provide additional information on fetal abnormalities. This may be done when results of an ultrasound are abnormal or don't provide enough information. The test is useful in identifying conjoined twins, a diaphragmatic hernia, oligohydramnios and various large tumors. It is not available everywhere, and it is expensive ($1,000 to $1,400). This test is not necessary for every pregnant woman.