Which test is used to monitor fetal oxygenation and placental function during labor?

Which test is used to monitor fetal oxygenation and placental function during labor?

• A. Pelvic ultrasound
• B. Non-stress test (NST) with continuous fetal heart rate monitoring
• C. Amniotic fluid index
• D. Umbilical artery Doppler

Answer: (B)

Continuous fetal heart rate monitoring is used to assess fetal oxygenation and placental function during labor. The non-stress test analyzes how the fetal heart rate responds to movement, with a reactive result (typically at least two accelerations within about 20 minutes) indicating adequate oxygen delivery and good placental perfusion. This real-time pattern is what makes the NST the preferred method for intrapartum monitoring of fetal well-being. Pelvic ultrasound checks anatomy and position, amniotic fluid index measures fluid volume, and umbilical artery Doppler looks at blood flow resistance in the umbilical circulation—useful in certain situations, but not the standard method for ongoing oxygenation monitoring during labor.

Continuous fetal heart rate monitoring is used to assess fetal oxygenation and placental function during labor. The non-stress test analyzes how the fetal heart rate responds to movement, with a reactive result (typically at least two accelerations within about 20 minutes) indicating adequate oxygen delivery and good placental perfusion. This real-time pattern is what makes the NST the preferred method for intrapartum monitoring of fetal well-being. Pelvic ultrasound checks anatomy and position, amniotic fluid index measures fluid volume, and umbilical artery Doppler looks at blood flow resistance in the umbilical circulation—useful in certain situations, but not the standard method for ongoing oxygenation monitoring during labor.