What is ctg during pregnancy?

As a soon-to-be mom, it’s perfectly normal to have concerns about your baby and their development. One common procedure that you’ll probably encounter in prenatal appointments is called CTG monitoring. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about CTG, so sit tight and let’s delve right into it!

Understanding the Basics of CTG Monitoring

CTG stands for Cardiotocography. It is a painless test performed by doctors or obstetricians during prenatal appointments on pregnant women from 26 weeks onward, with the main goal being assessing fetal well-being during childbirth- quite an important task if you ask me! The two ways this can be done are via external (over-the-bump ultrasound) or internal (fetal electrode insertion) monitoring.

As your bump grows bigger, there will be additional examinations done by your doctor- don’t worry too much; we’ve all been there before! These issues may include complications within pregnancy such as hypertension/fetal distressing situations.

How Does CTG Work?

CTG tests usually take around 20 to 30 minutes depending on how co-operative your unborn child feels. During that time frame, two electronic devices record activity: one measuring the heart rate of your little one while the other tracks uterine contractions.

The results are graded under three scales: Normal/Favourable/Critical
But when they say ‘favorable,’ it does not mean that labor has started or even imminent

The readings are usually displayed graphically using audio signals- quite fascinating if I must say so myself. The pitch comprising each heartbeat changes every moment fetus moves’.

A sample chart would look like this:

Time FHR Uterine Activity
10:00 150 Nothing
10:05 170 Mild uterine
10:11 180 Strong uterine+

The medical personnel will go over the ctg graph and come up with a diagnosis that highlights the well-being status of your baby.

Why Is CTG Important During Pregnancy?

As we alluded to earlier, the test is essential when assessing fetal viability. It can also establish fetal growth abnormalities or distresses early enough. That way, doctors can come up with actionable interventions based on identified concerns to deliver optimal maternal-fetal outcomes.

In addition, CTGs are usually done in high-risk situations like KOMW (keratoconus obturans moulded -meaning- maternal health issues). Therefore this could aid tackle complications before it becomes too late!

They’re lifesavers really.

Are There Any Risks Involved In Undergoing A CTG Test?

Like many medical procedures, risks may accompany them. The same goes for CTGs tests as there have been instances where false positives occur —- which might result in possible further unwarranted intervention/assistance during labor9
On the other hand, On rare occasions where internal monitoring is used may be associated with minimal bleeding post-procedure.

However, for most moms-to-be, benefits outweighed risks!

When Should You Opt For An Emergency Ctg Monitoring During Pregnancy?

Emergencies arise without warning! Here are some scenarios that warrant an emergency call:

  1. Lack of fetal movement.
  2. Vaginal bleeding
  3. Overdue pregnancy
  4. Preeclampsia
  5. Contractions felt before due time frame
    6.Abnormalities indicated by ultrasound scans

If any of these happen to you or someone else you know who’s pregnant under care obstetrician, do not hesitate to check out nearby hospitals immediately; better safe than sorry, right?

Conclusion

In the end, CTG is an essential procedure when it comes to assessing fetal development and ensuring your baby is healthy within the all-important nine months of pregnancy. We’ve discussed how it works, risks involved (though rare), and what situations call for emergency monitoring.

If you ever have any questions or concerns about your unborn child during your pregnancy journey, always feel free to talk about them with obstetricians as every stage calls for specific evaluations that enforce proper growth plus maternal-fetal well-being!

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