Clinical fetal monitoring. VII. The evaluation and significance of intrapartum baseline FHR variability.

The clinical usage of intrapartum fetal monitoring has increased dramatically in the past few years. Understanding of the pathophysiologic significance of FHR patterns has been further elucidated, but quantitation and prediction on an individual basis at times present a practical clinical dilemma. Baseline FHR variability was evaluated in order to see if it provided additional commentary on fetal status. The presence of FHR variability appears to be a favorable commentary regarding both fetal and newborn status. A clinical method of apprasing FHR is presented and the significance of FHR variability suggested.