Library of Frequently Asked Questions
Electronic fetal monitoring
Electronic fetal monitoring measures a baby’s heartbeat during labor. It is used in all situations where there is increased risk, such as when labor is induced, when an epidural (ep-a-dur-al) anesthetic (an-as-thet-ic) is used, or in cases of high blood pressure.
A fetal monitor registers the baby’s heartbeat before it is born and can pick up any signs of distress during the process of labor and delivery. The monitor can be attached externally to the mother’s abdomen or internally by placing a small electrode on the baby’s scalp. Wires lead to a monitor which records the heartbeat and the strength of the contractions.
External fetal monitoring can be conducted intermittently to allow the mother freedom to change positions and walk around. Internal monitoring relays a more accurate reading but is more invasive and limits the mother’s mobility.
The latest type of electronic fetal monitoring uses radio waves to transmit the data to the monitor, thus eliminating the wires and connections and allowing the mother to be more mobile.
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