Comparison of fetal movements and human placental lactogen as predictors of fetal outcome. A prospective study.

Maternal assessment of fetal movement and human placental lactogen (HPL) estimation were compared as predictors of fetal outcome in a prospective study of 135 antenatal patients. The sensitivity, predictive value and specificity for each test are presented. Abnormal fetal movements gave a better predictive index than abnormal HPL levels. The risk of poor fetal outcome is greatest when both parameters are abnormal.