Obstetrics and pregnancy care
Fetal monitoring (CTG)
Recording of the fetal heart rate and uterine activity to assess fetal wellbeing in selected situations.
Explained in clear language
What it is
Cardiotocography is mainly used later in pregnancy or during labour when there is a clinical indication.
How it is performed
- 1
Individual assessment and indication
- 2
Explanation, alternatives and consent
- 3
Procedure with appropriate safeguards
- 4
Results, aftercare and follow-up
Askabide visual archive
The procedure, also explained through images
The photographs come from Askabide’s clinical and “more information” sections. They have been selected by clinical area to support the explanation; not every image is a literal representation of each manoeuvre and none replaces an individual medical explanation.
Assessment and indication
The indication is decided after listening to the reason for attending, reviewing history and explaining the clinical question that needs to be answered.
How it is carried out
The technique, sample collection, device or intervention is adapted to the individual situation and explained before it starts.
Results and follow-up
The result is not interpreted in isolation: symptoms, examination, age, history and complementary tests are considered together.
Clinical interpretation
What is important to understand before deciding
What it can contribute
This procedure addresses a specific clinical question. Its usefulness depends on the indication, timing and technique being appropriate for your situation.
What it cannot determine on its own
No test or procedure should be interpreted outside its clinical context. A normal result does not dismiss persistent symptoms, and an abnormal finding does not automatically mean serious disease.
What happens afterwards
Depending on the result, the next step may be discharge, observation, repeat testing, further assessment or treatment. The plan is explained before the episode is considered complete.
Expanded information
Questions we answer during the consultation
The technical information on this page helps you prepare for the consultation. The final decision is made after assessing your circumstances and confirming that the likely benefit outweighs the risk.
Why does the pregnancy week matter so much?
Each test has a window in which it answers a particular question most accurately. Gestational age changes what can be seen, measured and interpreted.
Does a normal result rule out every problem?
No. Each test has a defined scope and limitations. A reassuring result reduces certain risks but cannot guarantee the absence of every possible condition.
What happens if an unexpected finding appears?
It is explained clearly, the need for confirmation is assessed, and the next step may be monitoring, an additional test, referral or specialist counselling.
What it is used for and when
- Reduced fetal movements.
- Higher-risk pregnancy, hypertension, growth concerns or prolonged pregnancy.
- Monitoring during labour according to the clinical situation.
How it is performed
Sensors are placed on the abdomen with elastic straps. Recording usually lasts 20–40 minutes but may continue longer depending on the pattern and context.
Preparation
Bring the date of your last menstrual period, previous reports, medication, allergies and obstetric history. Some tests have a specific gestational window.
Tell the team beforehand if pregnancy is possible, you take anticoagulants, have allergies, active infection or a relevant medical condition. Specific instructions take priority over the general information on this page.
After the procedure
You can usually continue normal activities. Specific advice may be given after an examination or sample.
Risks, limitations and alternatives
A single trace is a snapshot in time and may be inconclusive. It must be interpreted alongside gestation, movements, ultrasound, symptoms and maternal condition.
Clinical judgement and evidence
In obstetrics it is essential to distinguish screening from diagnosis. Screening estimates risk; a high-risk result may need diagnostic confirmation before clinical decisions are made.
Related procedures
Askabide Klinika
Not sure which procedure you need?
You do not need to choose a test on your own. Tell us what concerns you and the team will guide you after assessing your situation.