In what situation is continuous electronic fetal monitoring indicated?

Continuous electronic fetal monitoring is especially indicated in high-risk pregnancies or in situations where there are signs of fetal distress. This type of monitoring allows healthcare providers to continuously assess the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions, providing real-time data that can help in making timely decisions to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

In high-risk pregnancies, factors such as maternal health issues (like hypertension or diabetes), multiple gestations, or a history of previous pregnancy complications necessitate close monitoring to detect any potential signs of fetal distress early on. Signs of distress could include abnormal heart rate patterns indicative of decreased oxygenation or other concerns that may require intervention. Continuous monitoring enables healthcare providers to respond rapidly to any emerging risks, significantly improving outcomes for the fetus.

In contrast, low-risk pregnancies typically do not need such intensive monitoring, as the likelihood of complications is significantly lower. Monitoring during normal labor without complications allows for intermittent assessments instead of continuous observation. Routine check-ups do not require continuous electronic monitoring since they focus on different aspects of care, such as growth and general health rather than immediate fetal well-being.