Fetal heart rate events during sleep, and the impact of sleep disordered breathing, in pregnancies complicated by preterm fetal growth restriction: An exploratory observational case–control study

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns during sleep in pregnancies complicated by preterm fetal growth restriction (FGR). To determine whether co-existing sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) impacts on acute FHR events or perinatal outcome. Design: Observational case control study. Setting and population: Women with preterm FGR and gestation-matched well grown controls (estimated fetal weight above the 10th percentile with normal Doppler studies); tertiary maternity hospital, Australia. Methods: A polysomnogram, a test used to measure sleep patterns and diagnose sleep disorders, and concurrent cardiotocography (CTG), were analysed for respiratory events and FHR changes. Main ou..