MODEL RELEASED. Obstetric examination. Midwife (left) using a foetal doppler device to listen to a foetus' heartbeat. The sensor on the pregnant woman's abdomen sends out ultrasound, which is reflected off moving objects, such as the foetus' heart. The sound is relayed through a speaker (in the midwife's left hand) for the midwife and mother to hear. Regular check-ups are necessary during pregnancy so that the development of the baby and the health of the mother can be monitored. This woman is eight months (32 weeks) pregnant.