Fetal Distress based on Cardiotocography Data

Fetal distress is a medical term used to describe a situation where the health and well-being of a fetus are compromised during pregnancy or childbirth. Several possible causes of fetal distress include lack of oxygen, infections, fetal anomalies, and placental problems. Some of the signs and symptoms of fetal distress include Abnormal heart rate patterns: The fetal heart rate may be faster or slower than usual, or there may be irregular patterns in the heart rate. Decreased fetal movement: The fetus may be less active than usual, indicating a potential problem. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid: Meconium is a dark green substance that can be present in the amniotic fluid if the fetus is experiencing distress. Abnormal levels of amniotic fluid: Too little or too much amniotic fluid can be a sign of fetal distress. If fetal distress is suspected, prompt medical intervention is necessary to prevent serious complications, including brain damage or stillbirth. Depending on the cause of fetal distress, treatment may involve increasing the oxygen supply to the fetus, performing an emergency delivery, or administering medications to the mother. Cardiotocography monitors two vital parameters, i.e. Fetal heart rate (FHR) and uterine contractions (UC). These time series data can be used to detect fetal distress.