Fetal monitoring
Fetal monitoring tracks your baby's heart rate during labor to make sure the baby is coping well with contractions. A healthy baby shows a heart rate that rises and falls in response to movement and contractions. Two main methods are used: intermittent auscultation, where a midwife listens with a handheld Doppler every 15 to 30 minutes, and continuous electronic monitoring using a CTG machine strapped to your belly. Continuous monitoring is recommended if your labor is high-risk, such as after an induction, if you have an epidural, or if concerns arise during labor.
What This Means for You
Understanding Fetal monitoring is an important part of your labor journey. When preparing for birth, understanding this term helps you discuss your birth preferences with your midwife or OB-GYN and know what to expect in the delivery room.
Explore our Birth & Labour guideGood to Know
In Singapore public hospitals, continuous fetal monitoring is standard practice for induced labors and any labor with risk factors. If you have a low-risk pregnancy, ask your care team whether intermittent monitoring is an option for more freedom of movement.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/the-stages-of-labour-and-birth/
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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