Which statement is true regarding fetal distress during labor?

Fetal distress during labor is a critical situation that suggests the fetus may be experiencing inadequate oxygenation or other stressors that could compromise its well-being. This condition often requires immediate medical intervention to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Such interventions may include changes in the mother's position, increasing maternal oxygen supply, continuous fetal monitoring, or even an emergency cesarean section if the distress is severe or prolonged.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the nature of fetal distress. Maternal observation alone is insufficient for detecting fetal distress, as it relies heavily on clinical monitoring techniques such as electronic fetal monitoring, which provide vital information about the fetus's heart rate patterns. Fetal distress does not necessarily correlate with prolonged labor, nor is it a normal occurrence in every delivery. While some degree of fetal heart rate variability is expected during labor, significant distress is not typical and is a cause for concern that prompts further evaluation and intervention.