How long is the average period used to assess baseline fetal heart rate?

The average period used to assess baseline fetal heart rate is 10 minutes. This duration is recommended because it provides a sufficient timeframe to accurately capture the typical heart rate of the fetus while minimizing the potential for variability caused by momentary influences, such as fetal activity or maternal position changes.

Assessing the fetal heart rate over this 10-minute window allows healthcare providers to discern the true baseline heart rate from short-term fluctuations and ensures a reliable interpretation that can inform clinical decisions. Consistency in using this timeframe is critical for effective monitoring and is aligned with standard practice guidelines.