Simply put, it's an electronic, usually, device, that will allow you to hear the heart beat of your baby with the method of putting a device, along with gel, on the stomache of the expecting mother and the baby's heart beat will come through the monitor so you can hear it.

There are many styles of heart beat monitors so choosing the right one should be an informed decision. There are some that will allow you to record the baby's heart beat, for memories, or possibly if you find something that bothers you, being able to show the doctor.

They are fairly easy to use and don't take a lot of experience or knowledge to understand. They are fairly inexpensive which makes it a great idea to buy one to save money in the long run by long and costly medical visits to your doctor.

There are circumstances in certain situations where renting a baby heart beat monitor might be a better option that simply outright buying one.

There are many variables that go into this but usually the people who would rent one, would be maybe an expectant couple who don't plan on having another child, just want to use it as a one time thing and don't have a lot of money.

For that, renting would be ideal. If you are a couple who expects to have further children, maybe spending a little more upfront on a baby heartbeat monitor would be a better option.