Which of the following may indicate fetal distress during labor?

The presence of meconium staining during labor is a significant indicator of potential fetal distress. Meconium is the first stool passed by a newborn and is typically thick and dark green in color. When meconium is present in the amniotic fluid, it raises concern because it can indicate that the fetus has experienced some form of stress, potentially leading to hypoxia. If the fetus is in distress, it may pass meconium before birth, which can subsequently lead to meconium aspiration syndrome, where the newborn inhales a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid into the lungs, causing respiratory issues.

Fetal heart rate monitoring that shows a steady, normal heartbeat generally reflects a well-oxygenated fetus, indicating no distress. A decrease in maternal contractions might suggest the labor is not progressing, but does not directly indicate fetal distress. Similarly, a significant increase in maternal blood pressure may reflect maternal health issues but does not serve as a direct marker of fetal distress. Therefore, meconium staining is particularly noteworthy as it directly correlates with potential fetal oxygen deprivation and requires careful monitoring and assessment.