Fetal heart rate variability

Abstract

Early identification of fetal risks is a field of increasing interest and significance in most societies. A large body of research advocates various fetal assessment techniques to evaluate antepartum fetal risks. Such risks indicate the need for intervention that may reduce the risk of intrauterine death [1-3]. The risks include uteroplacental insufficiency, hypoxia, or fetal abnormalities. Antenatal fetal assessment may particularly have an impact for some maternal- or pregnancy-related conditions associated with increased perinatal morbidity and mortality, which are summarized in Table 17.1 [4].