How frequently should fetal heart rate be monitored in active labor?

Continuous monitoring of fetal heart rate is essential, particularly in high-risk pregnancies, to assess the well-being of the fetus and to detect any signs of distress or abnormal patterns in real-time. This type of monitoring provides healthcare providers with immediate access to critical data that can inform decision-making regarding interventions or further evaluation.

In high-risk situations, such as with factors like gestational diabetes, hypertension, or previous cesarean deliveries, maintaining continuous surveillance can help identify potential complications early, facilitating timely interventions that could improve outcomes for both mother and infant. Thus, continuous fetal heart rate monitoring is a fundamental aspect of providing safe and effective care during active labor, ensuring that any issues are promptly addressed.