Fetal heart rate refers to the number of heartbeats per minute of a developing fetus.
Fetal heart rate is an important indicator of fetal well-being during pregnancy. The normal range for fetal heart rate is between 110-160 beats per minute (bpm). The rate may vary in response to the baby's movements， maternal activity， and other factors.
Doctors and other healthcare professionals use fetal heart rate to monitor fetal health during pregnancy. They may use a fetal doppler or fetal monitor to detect and record the heart rate. These devices use ultrasound technology to pick up the sound of the fetal heart， which can then be heard through a speaker or displayed on a screen.
During labor and delivery， fetal heart rate is monitored continuously to ensure that the baby is tolerating the stress of childbirth. This can be done using an electronic fetal monitor， which records both the baby's heart rate and the mother's contractions.
If the fetal heart rate is outside of the normal range or shows signs of distress， healthcare providers may take steps to intervene and prevent harm to the baby. For example， they may administer oxygen to the mother， provide medication to stimulate uterine contractions， or perform an emergency cesarean section if necessary.
In summary， fetal heart rate is an important measure of fetal health during pregnancy and childbirth. Continuous monitoring and appropriate intervention when necessary can ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
