Fetal monitoring

**Fetal monitoring** refers to the regular observation and assessment of a fetus’s health and well-being during pregnancy and labor. This process typically involves tracking the fetal heart rate, movements, and other vital signs to ensure the baby is developing properly and to detect any signs of distress early. Common methods include electronic fetal heart rate monitoring, Doppler ultrasound, and non-stress tests. Fetal monitoring plays a crucial role in guiding clinical decisions to promote the safety and health of both mother and baby.