FHR in pregnancy refers to fetal heart rate, which is a crucial measurement of a baby's well-being. It's the rate and rhythm at which the heart of the fetus beats.
Understanding Fetal Heart Rate
Fetal heart rate monitoring helps healthcare providers assess the baby's health, especially during late pregnancy and labor.
- The average fetal heart rate typically ranges between 110 and 160 beats per minute (bpm), according to Fetal heart rate monitoring measures the heart rate and rhythm of your baby (fetus). The average fetal heart rate is between 110 and 160 beats per minute.
Why Monitor Fetal Heart Rate?
Monitoring FHR allows medical professionals to:
- Evaluate the baby's condition.
- Detect any potential problems or distress.
- Make informed decisions about the course of labor and delivery.
Methods of Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring
Fetal heart rate is monitored using various techniques, including:
- External Monitoring: This involves placing sensors on the mother's abdomen to detect and record the fetal heart rate.
- Internal Monitoring: This method uses a small electrode placed on the fetal scalp to directly measure the heart rate. It provides a more accurate and continuous reading but is typically used only during labor.
What FHR Can Indicate
Deviations from the normal FHR range may indicate:
- Fetal Distress: A heart rate that is too high (tachycardia) or too low (bradycardia) could be a sign that the baby is not getting enough oxygen or is experiencing other problems.
- Contractions: FHR patterns can show how the baby is responding to contractions during labor.
- Overall Fetal Health: Regular monitoring provides insights into the baby's overall health and well-being throughout pregnancy and labor.
