Intrapartum fetal heart rate: correlation with scalp pH in the preterm fetus.

The relationship of FHR patterns and fetal scalp blood pH is well documented in the term fetus. Although FHR monitoring has been increasingly used to guide intrapartum management of the preterm fetus, little documentation of efficacy and the interrelationship of FHR patterns with pH is available. This report of 62 preterm fetuses documents the relationship of FHR findings and their correlation with fetal pH. The ominous connotation of late deceleration is emphasized. The evaluation of the presence or absence of FHR variability and acceleration patterns are proved as significant factors which are helpful in making management decisions.