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Electronic Fetal Monitoring

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What is it?
Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM) is used to monitor the baby's heart rate and how it is affected by the contractions.  For external monitoring, flexible bands are placed around the mother's belly holding monitors in place.  Internal monitoring requires a doctor or nurse to break your bag of waters (AROM) and place a small corkscrew like probe onto your baby's head.

Why do I need it?
If the baby's heart rate fluctuates too high or too low after a mother's contraction, this could mean the blood supply is inadequate.  Doctors want to be able to monitor the baby's health throughout labor.

How does it feel?
With external monitoring you will have the band around your belly which will be tight enough to hold on the monitors, but should not be uncomfortable.  Internal monitoring may be uncomfortable at first as the catheter is inside your cervix, but should not be painful. The wires are then taped to your thigh to keep the monitors in place.

How will it affect my baby?
Babies are not typically affected by external monitoring; however, with internal monitoring a little probe is inserted into the top of the baby's head to monitor the contractions.  The probe is removed as the baby's head crowns.  The probe may leave a small bruise on the baby's head.

What are my other options?
Monitoring is not always a necessity.  Mothers can request to have intermittent monitoring instead of continuous monitoring.  This is done by using a special stethoscope or a handheld ultrasound device.  This option allows mothers to get up and move around as well as to get into a bath or shower.

How soon must I make a decision?
It is good to talk with your healthcare provider to see which monitoring methods are available at the hospital where you will be delivering.  Inform your doctor of your preferences for this procedure.