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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Electronic fetal monitoring

Electronic fetal monitoring

Electronic fetal monitoring measures a baby's (fetus's) heart rate during pregnancy or labor and delivery. It also shows how long and how strong your contractions are. These measurements can help a doctor or midwife check if a fetus is healthy or having any problems.

During labor and delivery, the fetal heart rate is closely watched along with uterine contractions. This helps the doctor or nurse see how the baby is responding and whether any treatments are needed.

Two types of monitoring—external or internal—can be done.

  • For external monitoring, instruments that detect fetal heartbeats and your contractions are placed around your abdomen.
  • For internal monitoring, a thin wire (electrode) is put through your cervix and attached to your baby's scalp. A small tube may also be guided through your cervix and into your uterus to measure contractions. Internal monitoring is not done if there is placenta previa, a condition where the placenta is low and just above the cervix, because of the risk of bleeding.

Current as of: July 15, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

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