What number on fetal monitor shows contractions?

The Y Axis of Fetal Monitoring These are beats per minute (bpm), which are measured in increments of 10 with markings every 30 beats. The red indicator on the bottom tracing shows the strength of a contraction, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). 6 The higher the number, the stronger the contraction.

Do contractions show up on NST?

The nonstress test (NST) is a simple, noninvasive way of checking on your baby’s health. The test, sometimes called a cardiotocography, records your baby’s movement, heartbeat, and contractions. It notes changes in heart rhythm when your baby goes from resting to moving, or during contractions if you’re in labor.

How are contractions measured on NST?

How is an NST Performed? The test involves attaching one belt to the mother’s abdomen to measure fetal heart rate and another belt to measure contractions. Movement, heart rate and “reactivity” of heart rate to movement are measured for 20-30 minutes.

How do you read a contraction stress test?

The contraction stress test is interpreted by the presence or absence of late fetal heart rate decelerations, which are defined as decelerations that reach their nadir after the peak of the contraction and that usually persist beyond the end of the contraction.

How high do contractions get on monitor?

During normal labor, the amplitude of contractions increases from an average of 30 mm Hg in early labor to 50 mm Hg in later first stage and 50 to 80 mm Hg during the second stage.

What number is a contraction?

The intensity of Braxton Hicks contractions varies between approximately 5-25 mm Hg (a measure of pressure). For comparison, during true labor the intensity of a contraction is between 40-60 mm Hg in the beginning of the active phase.

When are contraction stress tests done?

A contraction stress test checks to see if your baby will stay healthy during contractions when you are in labor. This test includes external fetal heart monitoring. The test is done when you are 34 or more weeks pregnant.

What is a positive contraction stress test?

A positive result If your baby’s heart beats more slowly after more than half of your contractions, the test result is positive, signaling that your baby may be under stress and unable to tolerate labor contractions.

What are regular contractions?

Regular contractions. Contractions are considered regular when the duration and frequency are stable over a period of time. An example is contractions lasting 60 seconds and coming five minutes apart for an hour.