What is the typical frequency of monitoring fetal heart rate during labor?

The typical frequency of monitoring fetal heart rate during labor is continuous throughout labor. Continuous monitoring allows healthcare providers to closely observe the fetal heart rate in real-time, ensuring any signs of fetal distress are detected promptly. This is especially important during labor, as the fetal heart rate can indicate how well the fetus is tolerating the contractions and the labor process itself. Additionally, continuous monitoring can help identify any abrupt changes in the fetal heart rate patterns that may require immediate medical intervention, thus facilitating timely decision-making to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.