Fetal heart rate monitoring often shows abnormal patterns that don’t reflect an underlying problem for the fetus. Research on fetal blood sampling has been limited. A recent study found weak correlations between fetal blood pH levels, umbilical cord pH levels and Apgar scores. It is vital that further research takes into account how fetal physiology actually works, rather than repeating inaccurate assumptions.
Central fetal monitoring systems gather data from CTG machines and show it in a central place. While aimed at improving outcomes this has not been proven in research. Midwives reported disruptions in response to what was seen at the central monitor, leading to altered care practices focused on documentation over support for birthing women. It is time to pause and think, rather than continue to accept the introduction of these systems.
Women planning a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) often seek to avoid negative experiences with CTG monitoring. This new mini-course offers reliable information on fetal monitoring options during VBAC, cutting risks down to realistic size, and providing communication strategies with care providers.
A Japanese research team compared human and artificial intelligence performance in analyzing CTG data to predict perinatal asphyxia. Clinicians slightly outperformed AI in accurately diagnosing affected babies. However, limitations raise concerns, emphasising the essential role of healthcare professionals over machines in maternity services.
Birth Small Talk 