Fetal heart monitoring

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Fetal heart and uterine contraction monitor

Internal fetal monitoring

(Page 3)

External fetal monitoring:

• Sitting in place for extended periods of time can become uncomfortable for some women. If this is the case, your health care provider can help reposition you to a more comfortable position.
• The ultrasound jelly may feel cold.

Internal fetal monitoring:

• Some women report feeling mild discomfort as the electrode is inserted through the cervix.

Both types of tests are performed to evaluate fetal heart rate and variability between beats, especially in relation to uterine contractions. The tests also indicate the frequency and strength of uterine contractions.

This information is invaluable in determining how well your baby is tolerating the birth process, and if there needs to be emergency intervention.

Review Date: 02/22/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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