At Baby in Sight, we believe there is no sound more magical in life than the rhythmic drumbeat of your unborn baby’s tiny heart. These precious sounds not only evoke wonder but also provide critical information about your baby’s overall well-being.
What is Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring?
During pregnancy and labor, healthcare professionals frequently use fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring tests. It tracks the speed and pattern of your baby’s heart sounds and is essential for assessing your little one’s well-being.
Types of FHR Monitoring
External Monitoring
- Doppler Ultrasound: During prenatal visits, a handheld Doppler device is used to check your baby’s heart rate. This device uses sound waves to measure the baby’s heart rate and displays the readout on a screen, similar to a medical ultrasound.
- Electronic Fetal Monitor (EFM) or Continuous Doppler Ultrasound: During labour, an EFM device uses sensors and belts placed on the belly to monitor contractions and heart rate continuously until delivery.
- Fetoscope: Similar to a stethoscope, this instrument has a cone-shaped end pressed to your belly to hear your baby’s heartbeat.
Internal Monitoring
In some cases, healthcare providers monitor your baby’s heart rate inside the uterus by attaching a wire to the baby’s head. This method is used during labour once your water has broken and is typically required when external EFM results are unreliable or more precise monitoring is needed.
Also Read: Early Gender Determination: How Early Can You Find Out?
Why is Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring Done?
A healthy fetal heart rate ranges from approximately 110 to 160 beats per minute. Monitoring helps healthcare providers:
- Track Speed and Pattern: Evaluating fetal well-being by determining if the heart rate is within the normal range or fluctuating too much.
- Determine if intervention is needed: An irregular heart rate can indicate insufficient oxygen or other issues, prompting further testing or emergency delivery if necessary.
When is FHR monitoring done?
Fetal heart rate monitoring is a crucial medical assessment typically conducted during:
- Prenatal Checkups: Routine checkups with your doctor or midwife using Doppler ultrasound.
- High-Risk Pregnancies: Regular monitoring for conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
- Labour and Delivery: Continuous monitoring with an EFM device during labour and delivery.
Also Read: What Can You Expect To See During Your 3D Ultrasound?
A Note from Baby in Sight
At Baby in Sight, all our 4D packages include a heartbeat segment where we listen to the Doppler heart sound of your little one. Capture and cherish this beautiful sound forever with our super-soft Heartbeat Plush Toys. To learn more about our Heartbeat Plush Toys or to book a 3D/4D session, call us today at (647) 966-1233 or visit Baby in Sight.
Location: 8312 McCowan Rd. Suite 204b, Markham, ON L3P 8E1
