When does a late deceleration of the FHR occur in relation to uterine contractions?

A late deceleration of fetal heart rate (FHR) is characterized by a gradual decrease in the FHR that begins after the peak of a uterine contraction and returns to baseline after the contraction has ended. This pattern indicates a response to uterine contractions, where the fetal heart rate drops following the peak of the contraction due to factors such as uteroplacental insufficiency, which can lead to decreased oxygenation for the fetus during the contraction.

This is crucial for monitoring because it highlights potential complications, such as fetal distress. Observing that the deceleration starts after the peak allows healthcare providers to assess the adequacy of the oxygen supply to the fetus and take action if necessary. Thus, understanding when these decelerations occur in relation to contractions is vital for timely intervention and management during labor.