What is considered a normal fetal heart rate range during labor?

The normal fetal heart rate range during labor is considered to be 110 to 160 beats per minute. This range reflects a healthy and well-oxygenated fetus, indicating that the fetus is likely experiencing adequate blood flow and oxygen supply. Monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial during labor to assess the well-being of the fetus and to identify any potential distress.

A fetal heart rate below 110 beats per minute may indicate bradycardia, which could suggest potential complications, while rates above 160 beats per minute could suggest tachycardia, which may be associated with factors like maternal fever or fetal distress. Hence, the range of 110 to 160 beats per minute is the benchmark used by healthcare professionals to evaluate fetal status throughout labor progression. Understanding this range helps in making clinical decisions to ensure both maternal and fetal safety.