What is the benefit of tactile stimulation on fetal heart rate?

Tactile stimulation, such as gently rubbing or shaking the fetus through the abdomen, is beneficial because it can trigger accelerations in fetal heart rate. This response typically indicates a healthy fetal condition, as accelerations often reflect fetal well-being and are a sign of positive neurological response. In the context of fetal monitoring, observing these accelerations can help clinicians assess fetal health and responsiveness, particularly in situations where there may be concerns about the baby's condition.

When stimulation is applied and results in accelerations, it suggests that the fetal heart is reacting positively to external stimuli, indicating that the brain is functioning well, and the fetus is not in distress. This can be an important factor in evaluating the fetus during labor or assessing for any underlying issues with fetal heart patterns.