What is ctg

Overview

Cardiotocography, commonly abbreviated as CTG, is a non-invasive diagnostic test used primarily in obstetrics to monitor the health of a developing fetus during pregnancy and labor. The term comes from "cardio" (heart), "toco" (contraction), and "graphy" (recording). CTG provides continuous or intermittent recordings of fetal heart rate and maternal uterine contractions, allowing healthcare providers to assess fetal well-being and detect potential complications.

How CTG Works

CTG monitoring uses two external sensors placed on the mother's abdomen. One sensor uses ultrasound technology (a Doppler transducer) to detect and record the fetal heart rate, while the other sensor is a pressure-sensitive device that detects and records uterine contractions. The equipment creates a two-channel recording that displays both parameters simultaneously on a continuous strip of paper or digital monitor. The procedure is painless and poses no known risks to the mother or fetus.

When CTG is Used

CTG monitoring is employed in several clinical situations including routine pregnancy care as part of regular prenatal visits, particularly in the third trimester. It is also used for high-risk pregnancies with complications such as gestational diabetes or hypertension, during labor and delivery as continuous or intermittent monitoring, for post-term pregnancies beyond 40-42 weeks, and when a mother reports decreased fetal movements.

Normal Fetal Heart Rate

A healthy fetus typically has a heart rate between 110 and 160 beats per minute. The CTG reading shows the baseline fetal heart rate and variations that occur with fetal movement and uterine contractions. Healthcare providers look for certain patterns that indicate good fetal health, including variability in the heart rate and accelerations (temporary increases in heart rate with fetal movement).

Interpreting CTG Results

CTG tracings are classified as reassuring, non-reassuring, or abnormal based on specific criteria including baseline heart rate, variability, and the presence of accelerations and decelerations. Reassuring patterns suggest the fetus is receiving adequate oxygen and is healthy. Non-reassuring patterns may require further investigation or intervention, while abnormal patterns may indicate fetal distress and necessitate immediate medical attention or delivery.