What do late decelerations in fetal heart rate monitoring indicate?

Late decelerations in fetal heart rate monitoring primarily indicate a potential issue related to fetal oxygenation. These decelerations generally occur after a contraction and can suggest that the fetus is experiencing some degree of hypoxia, which is a lack of adequate oxygen. While late decelerations are serious and can reflect compromised fetal well-being, they do not always imply acidosis, as the fetus might still be managing to maintain normal acid-base status for a period of time despite experiencing hypoxia.

Monitoring the pattern and frequency of late decelerations is crucial for assessing the necessity for intervention. While they signal a need for further evaluation, they do not automatically indicate an immediate need for delivery; the response would depend on the overall clinical context, including the presence of other symptoms, the fetal heart rate baseline, and maternal health. Understanding late decelerations is vital for recognizing potential risks during labor and making informed decisions about patient management.