When complications occur
How will my baby’s heart rate be monitored during my labour?
Intermittent monitoring
If you have had a healthy pregnancy and there are no problems at the onset of labour, your midwife will listen to your baby's heart beat every 15 to 30 minutes using a small hand-held Doppler ultrasound device.
Continuous electronic monitoring
If you or your baby have any known risk factors, continuous monitoring may be recommended.
This is done using a CTG (cardiotocograph) machine. This type of monitoring is external (outside your abdomen).
Telemetry
Telemetry is a wireless system of monitoring that can be used while you are mobile and walking around, even in the shower.
Fetal scalp electrode (FSE)
Sometimes it is necessary to attach the monitor directly onto your baby via a special lead. This is called a fetal scalp electrode. The lead is placed on your baby’s head during an internal vaginal examination. Telemetry (wireless) monitoring is still available using an FSE.
This type of monitoring is internal and is more reliable and accurate than external monitoring, particularly when you are mobile.
More information: Queensland Clinical Guidelines parent information – Fetal monitoring in labour
In this guide:
- Plans may change
- Pre-eclampsia
- Preterm birth
- Breech
- What if my pregnancy is ‘overdue’?
- How will my baby’s heart rate be monitored during my labour?
- Concerns for baby in labour
- Antibiotic treatment during labour
- Blood loss after birth