When assessing fetal heart rate patterns, what indicates fetal distress?

Non-reassuring late decelerations are an indication of fetal distress as they are associated with impaired placental perfusion or uteroplacental insufficiency. Late decelerations typically occur after a contraction begins and resolve after the contraction ends, suggesting that the fetus is experiencing a lack of oxygen during the contraction. This pattern may indicate that the fetus is not tolerating labor well and is at risk for further complications if not addressed promptly.

In contrast, early decelerations are often a normal physiological response due to head compression and are generally not a sign of fetal distress. Variable decelerations can indicate umbilical cord compression, but they may not always signify fetal distress if they are short and resolve quickly. Baseline variability is an important indicator of fetal well-being; a healthy fetus typically shows moderate variability in heart rate, reflecting a well-functioning autonomic nervous system. Thus, it does not necessarily indicate distress but rather a reassuring sign of fetal health.