What do late decelerations in fetal heart monitoring suggest?

Late decelerations in fetal heart monitoring are characterized by a decrease in fetal heart rate that occurs after the peak of a contraction. This pattern is significant because it indicates that the fetus may be experiencing some form of distress, typically due to a decreased oxygen supply. When the uterine contractions increase in strength and duration, they can lead to compression of the umbilical cord or reduced uterine blood flow, which would delay the heart rate response. Therefore, the timing of these decelerations—starting after the contraction has peaked—suggests that the fetus is not responding well to the changes in oxygenation that occur during contractions. This finds critical relevance in assessing fetal well-being, and further medical evaluation may be required if late decelerations are observed. Understanding this pattern helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding labor management and interventions if necessary.