Fetal heart monitoring

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Fetal heart and uterine contraction monitor

Internal fetal monitoring

Your health care provider will explain the procedure and its risks. You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and sign a consent form prior to the procedure.

External fetal monitoring:

Sitting in place for extended periods of time can become uncomfortable for some people. If this is the case, your health care provider (once notified) will help reposition you to a more comfortable position.

The jelly that is placed under the external monitors is the same used for ultrasounds, and may be cold.

Internal fetal monitoring:

Some patients report feeling mild discomfort while 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: 05/23/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network