When you are in labor, your baby’s heart rate is one of the most important indicators of their well-being. Monitoring the heart rate during labor can help detect potential issues early, such as oxygen deprivation, which could lead to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This blog will cover what constitutes a normal heart rate, what might cause deviations from that range, and how failure to act on abnormal heart rates can lead to serious consequences.
What Is a Normal Fetal Heart Rate?
During labor, a healthy baby’s heart rate generally falls between 110 and 160 beats per minute. Deviations from this range can signal potential distress. If the heart rate drops below 110, it’s known as bradycardia. When it rises above 160, it’s called tachycardia. Both conditions can be warning signs that the baby is not receiving adequate oxygen, a primary concern in cases of HIE.
Causes Of Bradycardia And Tachycardia In Labor
Bradycardia, or a heart rate below 110 beats per minute, can occur due to umbilical cord compression, placental abruption, or low maternal blood pressure. These issues restrict oxygen flow to the baby. On the other hand, tachycardia, or a heart rate above 160 beats per minute, can be triggered by maternal fever or infections such as chorioamnionitis. Both bradycardia and tachycardia can point to potential oxygen deprivation, which increases the risk of HIE.
Fetal Heart Rate And HIE: Why Monitoring During Labor Is Critical
When a baby shows signs of bradycardia or tachycardia, it is crucial for medical professionals to respond promptly. Delays in intervention, whether through repositioning, oxygen support, or an emergency C-section, can lead to oxygen deprivation, resulting in HIE. Continuous fetal heart monitoring is essential, and failure to act on non-reassuring fetal heart strips can have lifelong consequences.
Ensuring that doctors and nurses take immediate action can be the difference between a healthy baby and a life-altering condition like HIE. Fetal heart rate and HIE, why monitoring during labor is critical cannot be overstated when it comes to protecting your baby’s health.
If you have questions about how improper fetal monitoring may have led to your baby’s HIE brain injury, don’t hesitate to contact me for more information.
Marcus B. Boston, Esq.
9701 Apollo Dr. Suite 100
Largo, Maryland 20774
301-850-4832
1-833-4 BABY HELP
