it's possible for readings to indicate a problem when the baby is actually fine. However, more than a few experts have criticized this study because of problems with the quality of the data and factors, such as the length of each pregnancy, that were not taken into account, and which may have affected the results. A large study that looked at birth certificate records found that continuous electronic monitoring was associated with a lower rate of newborn deaths. But their Apgar scores were the same regardless of monitoring type, and the monitoring method did not influence babies' risk of death or long-term problems such as cerebral palsy. One analysis of 13 randomized research trials showed that newborns were less likely to have seizures when monitored continuously rather than intermittently. ![]() What's more, using continuous monitoring in low-risk pregnancies can increase the risk of false readings that lead to the mother undergoing unnecessary procedures. Periodic monitoring (intermittent auscultation) is just as effective.Ī few studies have found that babies may be marginally safer when monitored continuously, but results are inconclusive. Which is better: Continuous fetal monitoring or intermittent auscultation?įor low-risk pregnancies, experts agree there's no need for continuous fetal monitoring. ![]() You may end up with electronic fetal monitoring for a time – or, if necessary, for the duration of your labor. If your caregiver suspects a problem is developing, she'll check the heart rate more frequently. In addition to the planned interval checks, your baby's heart rate will be evaluated as needed, such as when your water breaks. Heart rate during and shortly after contractions: This will give your provider a sense of how your baby is tolerating labor."Baseline" heart rate: This is your baby's heart rate between contractions when he's not moving (normal is between 110 and 160 beats per minute).This might happen every 15 to 30 minutes in the active phase of the first stage of labor, and every five to 15 minutes during the second (pushing) stage. The nurse or provider will check your baby's heartbeat at specific intervals. She'll also assess your contractions by laying her hands on your belly. Your provider or labor nurse will hold the handheld Doppler device, external fetal monitor probe or fetoscope against your belly and listen to your baby's heartbeat, just as she did during prenatal visits. How is periodic fetal monitoring (intermittent auscultation) done? Another device that tracks your contractions is usually attached to a second band around your abdomen. ![]() This device monitors your baby's heartbeat. What is continuous external electronic fetal monitoring like?Īn electronic device called a transducer that is attached to wide, stretchy bands will be placed around your abdomen. If your pregnancy is low-risk and you go into labor spontaneously, your baby's heart rate may only be monitored intermittently. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or are having your labor induced or augmented with medication, you'll likely be hooked up to an electronic fetal monitor continuously throughout labor. Intermittent monitoring is done with an electronic fetal monitor, a handheld Doppler device, or a fetoscope. Your health provider will check your baby's heart rate either continuously with an electronic fetal monitor, or periodically (this is called intermittent auscultation).
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |