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

The primary purpose of fetal heart rate monitoring during labor is to evaluate fetal health and well-being. This monitoring provides crucial information about the fetus's condition, including its oxygenation and response to contractions. By analyzing the fetal heart rate patterns, healthcare providers can identify potential signs of distress or complications, enabling timely interventions if needed to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus.

Monitoring uterine activity, assessing maternal health, and predicting labor duration are important aspects of labor management, but they do not primarily focus on the direct assessment of the fetus's immediate condition. The central goal of fetal heart rate monitoring is to continuously gauge the fetal response to labor processes and ensure that the fetus remains healthy throughout labor.