When the doctor asks Bumil to have a cardiotocography or CTG, don't worry too much. Maybe Bumil doesn't know what CTG is and why the examination needs to be done. Doctors usually require this examination to ensure the health condition of the fetus in the womb.
CTG is a device used to monitor fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. This tool is used to see whether there is interference on the baby before or during labor, so that doctors and midwives can provide immediate assistance if there is a change in fetal heart rate or uterine contractions.
What Does Cardiotocography Tool and How It Works?
The shape of the CTG resembles two small disks that are attached to the surface of the belly of a pregnant woman by using an elastic belt. One disc measures the fetal heart rate, while the other measures the pressure on the stomach. That way, this tool is able to show whenever pregnant women experience contractions and each contraction can be estimated strength.
Before CTG is installed, Bumil's stomach will be smeared with gel first so that the signal can be caught properly. This belt is then connected to the machine which translates the signal received by the dish.
To detect fetal heart rates, CTG uses sound waves. Unlike the adult heart rate which is around 60-100 times per minute, the average fetal heart rate in the womb is around 110-160 times per minute. If the heart rate is too low or high, this could be a sign of fetal problems.
Conditions that require Cardiotocography Examination
CTG is needed if pregnant women experience conditions that are considered to be dangerous to labor or the baby in the womb, for example diabetes or high blood pressure. This examination is needed to determine what actions can be taken to facilitate labor.
In addition, CTG is usually also done regularly if the pregnant woman is in a condition, such as:
- Have a high fever.
- There is bleeding during labor.
- Having an infection, such as HIV or hepatitis B and C.
- Containing twins.
- There is a problem with amniotic fluid (amount, color, aroma).
- Breech pregnancy.
- Weakened or irregular fetal movements.
- Estimated to have disorders of the placenta,
- Experiencing premature rupture of membranes.
CTG can also be done to measure Braxton Hicks or false contractions, and anticipate genuine contractions in pregnant women who have passed through the third trimester of pregnancy, but have not yet given birth.
The CTG machine will produce graphical results according to the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. Inspection results can be categorized into reactive and non-active. Called nonreactive if the fetal heart rate does not increase after he moves, and reactive if the heart rate increases after he moves.
Pregnant women, no need to worry because CTG does not use radiation, so it is safe for the fetus. If pregnant women still need more information, do not hesitate to ask the doctor.
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