CTG during pregnancy

CTG or cardiotocography is prescribed in the last stages of pregnancy in order to give a complete picture of fetal development and identify heart pathology. Therefore, you should not skip the examination. In this article we will talk about the norms of CTG and how to prepare for the study.

What does CTG show during pregnancy?

At 30 weeks The gynecologist prescribes a test called CTG. You should not be afraid of it, as it does not harm the baby or the expectant mother. This examination shows the development of the baby, or rather his heart, and how he reacts to uterine contractions.

Based on the results, the doctor determines whether the baby is comfortable in the womb and whether he suffers from any diseases. If violations are noticed, a repeat test is scheduled no less than 10 days later.

If the indicators did not give better results the second time, then the expectant mother is sent to the maternity hospital, but so far only to the pathology department. The obstetrician-gynecologist is required to prescribe another CTG to verify the results. If the fears are confirmed, then delivery is carried out surgically.

Yes, the moment is very exciting and the expectant mother is worried about her baby, but if there are any violations, it is better to carry out the operation in a timely manner. Modern medicine will give the baby every opportunity to live. Moreover by 7 months the child is formed and has every chance to be healthy and strong in the future.

Normal CTG during pregnancy

We will not describe abstruse terms, since for you they are an empty phrase. For expectant mothers, the final result is important, by which they can assess the condition of the child:

• 9-12 points means that everything is fine with the child and there is no reason for concern;
• 6-8 points indicate that there is slight oxygen starvation and a repeat study is required;
• A score of 0-5 is a serious reason for an emergency birth, as the baby is suffering in the womb and is in serious danger.

You should also pay attention to other indicators:

• the heart rate or heart rate should be 110-160 in a calm state and 130-190 in an active state;
• number of peaks of heart rate acceleration - more than 2 pcs. in 30 minutes;
• the slowdown of the rhythm should occur quickly, ideally the depth of cardiac peaks should not exceed 15 beats/min;
• indicator, not to be confused with points, of fetal condition - 1.

Don't worry if some readings are a little higher or lower than normal. Perhaps you ate the wrong food or are worried. Anything can affect the results. If the doctor looks at the tests and CTG results, but doubts remain, then a repeat test is carried out after 10 days.

How is CTG done?

If the pregnancy proceeds normally and without complications, then in the third trimester the study is carried out only 2 times. In case of any violations, examination is scheduled 3-5 times. If the indicators do not change or worsen, then a decision may be made for surgery. Therefore, you should not panic or worry before performing a CTG. The procedure is painless.

The doctor will ask you to make yourself comfortable on the couch. The pose should be taken half-sitting or on the left side. If you lie on your right side, you can compress the pudendal vein and then the child will behave restlessly. Then the doctor will listen to where the heart sounds are heard more clearly and connect a sensor to take readings. If the device is not modern, they will give you a button that must be pressed when the baby moves. The procedure lasts 30-40 minutes. In modern centers, the study is carried out in 15-20 minutes.

Also, the expectant mother needs to prepare for the procedure:

• eat 2-3 hours before the study;
• eliminate any unrest;
• don't eat sweets as they can make you high blood sugar level.

In fact, there is no serious preparation as such. You're not afraid to do an ultrasound, are you?! It’s the same with CTG – there should be no fear.