Which condition may necessitate further evaluation of fetal heart rate patterns?

A non-reactive non-stress test result indicates that the fetal heart rate does not exhibit expected changes in response to fetal movements. This could suggest potential issues with fetal well-being or placental function and is a signal for healthcare providers to conduct further evaluation and monitoring. In contrast, conditions such as moderate variability, reactive non-stress test results, and consistent accelerations generally reflect a more reassuring fetal status and typically do not warrant further investigation, as they indicate healthy fetal responses. These patterns are associated with a well-oxygenated fetus and normal autonomic nervous system functioning.