ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support

toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Electronic fetal monitoring

Electronic fetal monitoring

Electronic fetal monitoring measures a baby's (fetus's) heart rate during pregnancy or labor and delivery. It also shows how long and how strong your contractions are. These measurements can help a doctor or midwife check if a fetus is healthy or having any problems.

During labor and delivery, the fetal heart rate is closely watched along with uterine contractions. This helps the doctor or nurse see how the baby is responding and whether any treatments are needed.

Two types of monitoring—external or internal—can be done.

  • For external monitoring, instruments that detect fetal heartbeats and your contractions are placed around your abdomen.
  • For internal monitoring, a thin wire (electrode) is put through your cervix and attached to your baby's scalp. A small tube may also be guided through your cervix and into your uterus to measure contractions. Internal monitoring is not done if there is placenta previa, a condition where the placenta is low and just above the cervix, because of the risk of bleeding.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.