fetal heart rate variability

Pathology

• variable slowing of fetal heart rate after contraction may indicate umbilical cord compressioon
• early slowing of fetal heart rate after a contraction may indicate head compression
• late slowing of fetal heart rate after a contraction may indicate placental insufficiency
• faster fetal heart rate after contraction OK

Indications

• monitoring fetal heart rate with uterine contractions

More general terms

• heart rate variability (HRV)
• fetal heart rate