What is the primary purpose of fetal heart monitoring during labor?

The primary purpose of fetal heart monitoring during labor is to assess fetal well-being and detect any signs of fetal distress. This monitoring helps healthcare providers evaluate how well the fetus is tolerating labor and whether there are any signs that the fetus may be experiencing stress due to inadequate oxygenation or other complications. By continuously or intermittently monitoring the fetal heart rate, clinicians can identify patterns or changes that may indicate issues, allowing for timely interventions if necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.

Other options, while they may play a role in the overall assessment of the labor process, do not focus specifically on the primary concern of fetal safety and health during labor.