The full form of FHR in a hospital setting is Fetal Heart Rate.
Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) is a vital measurement used to monitor a baby's well-being during pregnancy and labor. It indicates the number of times a baby's heart beats per minute.
Here's a breakdown of what FHR entails:
- Normal Range: A normal FHR generally ranges from 110 to 160 beats per minute. This range can vary slightly depending on the gestational age of the fetus and other factors.
- Monitoring Methods: FHR can be monitored using various methods, including:
- External Monitoring: This involves placing sensors on the mother's abdomen to detect and record the fetal heartbeat.
- Internal Monitoring: This involves placing an electrode directly on the fetal scalp to obtain a more accurate and continuous reading. This method is typically used during labor.
- Importance of Monitoring: FHR monitoring helps healthcare professionals assess the baby's health and identify any potential problems, such as fetal distress or hypoxia (lack of oxygen).
- Variations in FHR: The FHR can fluctuate based on the baby's activity level and other factors. Healthcare providers will analyze the patterns and variations in FHR to determine if the baby is doing well.
Monitoring the fetal heart rate is a standard procedure during prenatal care and labor to ensure the well-being of the baby.
