As expectant parents prepare for childbirth, many attend classes focused on techniques like acupressure and hypnotherapy for pain management. However, they might be surprised when hospitals discuss foetal monitoring, a topic often not covered in these courses. Foetal monitoring, which tracks the baby’s heart rate and uterine contractions, is standard practice during labor. Yet, it can influence comfort, pain management, and even lead to increased medical interventions such as caesarean sections.
There are various monitoring methods. Wired devices, which limit mobility due to being physically attached, are common, especially in private and regional hospitals. In contrast, wireless telemetry offers greater freedom, and newer stick-on monitors provide non-invasive options. Despite being available for two decades in Australia, wireless options remain underused.
The Women’s experiences Of Monitoring Baby (WOMB) study found that most women receive wired monitoring due to insufficient information about alternatives. This lack of choice was more pronounced during induced labors, which are becoming more routine and often correlate with a rise in interventions like epidurals and cesareans—a phenomenon known as the “cascade of interventions.”
Women using handheld or wireless monitors report better comfort and mobility, critical for effective pain management without medications. Many expressed dissatisfaction with wired monitoring, feeling it negatively impacted their birth experience and that healthcare providers focused more on technology than personalized care.
The survey underscores the need for health professionals to provide comprehensive information on monitoring options to ensure informed, person-centered care. With informed choices, women can have a more comfortable and empowering birth experience.
Original Story https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/foetal-monitoring-can-be-essential-during-labour-9667811/
Category : Health,Lifestyle
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Publish Date: 2024-11-13 23:30:00
