A doctor conducts fetal monitoring during labor to assess the baby's heart rate and overall well-being, ensuring that the fetus is tolerating labor well. This monitoring helps identify any signs of distress, such as a decrease in heart rate, which may indicate complications that require immediate intervention. Additionally, it allows for timely decision-making regarding the need for interventions like a cesarean section if the baby's safety is at risk. Ultimately, fetal monitoring enhances the chances of a safe delivery for both the mother and the baby.
Fetal monitoring is a process in which the baby's heart rate is monitored for indicators of stress during labor and birth.
A normal fetal oxygen saturation is typically around 95-100%. Any levels lower than this may indicate fetal distress or hypoxia. Monitoring fetal oxygen saturation is an important part of assessing the well-being of the fetus during pregnancy and labor.
Specific reasons for EFM include: babies in a breech position, premature labor, and induced labor, among others
Fetal heartbeat stopping.
The most common fetal presentation during labor and delivery is the cephalic presentation, where the baby's head is positioned to come out first.
The normal value of fetal scalp pH typically ranges from 7.20 to 7.45. A pH below 7.20 may indicate fetal acidosis, while values above 7.45 could suggest alkalosis. Monitoring fetal scalp pH helps assess the well-being of the fetus during labor.
AWHONN (Association of Women's Health, Obstetrics and Neonatal Nurses) certified and trained Labor and Delivery nurses can place internal fetal monitors for the fetus and to monitor contractions. It is dependent on the need and individual state nurse practice acts and the institutional policies.
Maternal to fetal infections are transmitted from the mother to her fetus, either across the placenta during fetal development (prenatal) or during labor and passage through the birth canal (perinatal).
Oxygen deprivation in fetuses can be determined by monitoring the fetal heart rate patterns using electronic fetal monitoring. This can be done during labor and delivery to assess the oxygen supply to the fetus. Other signs such as decreased fetal activity or low oxygen levels in the mother's blood may also indicate oxygen deprivation in the fetus.
The feta head, or fetal vertex, plays a crucial role in the process of labor as it engages with the maternal pelvis. During the onset of labor, the fetal head descends into the pelvic inlet, which helps in determining the position and orientation of the fetus. Proper alignment of the fetal head with the pelvic cavity can facilitate effective contractions and dilation of the cervix, ultimately aiding in the delivery process. Anomalies in this relationship can lead to complications, such as prolonged labor or the need for interventions.
A Caesarean is necessary when there are labor complications like dystocia or fetal distress. They are usually unavoidable if the labor becomes complicated
Internal rotation happens after flexion of the fetal head during labor. The fetus will turn its head either to look straight up or down.