What is a CTG machine?
Cardiotocography (CTG) is a technical means of recording (-graphy) the fetal heartbeat (cardio-) and the uterine contractions (-toco-) during pregnancy, typically in the third trimester. The machine used to perform the monitoring is called a cardiotocograph, more commonly known as an electronic fetal monitor.
What are the types of CTG?
In the below example, there are 2 contractions in a 10 minute period (this is often referred to as “2 in 10”).
- Uterine contractions (CTG)
- CTG: Baseline heart rate.
- CTG: Variability.
- CTG: Reduced variability.
- CTG: Accelerations.
- CTG: Early decelerations.
- CTG: Variable decelerations.
- CTG: Late decelerations.
How long does CTG monitoring take?
Antepartum and on admission to the labor room (admission CTG) the usual (minimum) duration of recording is 30 minutes. Particularly in the third trimester of pregnancy the CTG should be obtained with the mother placed in a left lateral position to prevent vena cava syndrome.
When should you start CTG monitoring?
Continuous CTG monitoring should start late in the first stage of labor and during the expulsion stage.
What is normal FHR?
The average fetal heart rate is between 110 and 160 beats per minute. It can vary by 5 to 25 beats per minute. The fetal heart rate may change as your baby responds to conditions in your uterus. An abnormal fetal heart rate may mean that your baby is not getting enough oxygen or that there are other problems.
What is a high contraction number on monitor?
The red indicator on the bottom tracing shows the strength of a contraction, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). 6 The higher the number, the stronger the contraction.
What is deceleration CTG?
Decelerations are transient episodes of decrease of FHR below the baseline of more than 15 bpm lasting at least 15 seconds.
Is CTG monitoring safe for baby?
Are there any side-effects or complications from cardiotocography? CTG does not use any radiation; it is considered a very safe test.
