What is Fetal Heart Rate?
The earliest indicator of fetal distress is normally identified as an abnormal heart rate pattern in the fetus. There is usually a marked increase (tachycardia) or decrease (bradycardia) in the baby’s heart rate. The umbilical cord may also become compressed or twisted causing a reduction in heart rate and oxygenation to the major organs. The baseline for a normal fetal heart rate is anywhere from 120 – 160 beats per minute. It is normal for a baby’s heart rate to change during uterine contractions. It should be noted that the gender of the baby does not make a difference in terms of fetal heart rate. Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting During Pregnancy The first thing that comes to mind when an expectant mother begins to spot or bleed is miscarriage. It is important to be able to differentiate between spotting and bleeding. Spotting is the same type of very light bleeding you experience at the beginning and end of your menstrual cycle. Approximately 3% to 4% of all pregnancies will experienc
