Subtitle: Fetal Response to Hypoxic Stress
The fetus experiences a range of responses to hypoxic stress, which is a lack of adequate oxygen supply. These responses can be both physiological and psychological. The two main components of the fetal response to hypoxic stress are an increase in heart rate and changes in fetal movement.
Physiological Response
The physiological response to hypoxic stress is a rapid increase in the fetal heart rate. This is an attempt to compensate for the lack of oxygen by increasing the amount of oxygen being delivered to the fetus. This increase in heart rate can be seen on the fetal heart rate monitor as early as 10 minutes after hypoxic stress has been initiated.
Psychological Response
The psychological response to hypoxic stress is a decrease in fetal movement. This is thought to be an attempt to conserve energy. It has been suggested that the fetus will reduce its movements to conserve energy and oxygen, and to reduce the demand on the placenta. This decrease in fetal movement can be seen on the fetal heart rate monitor as early as 30 minutes after hypoxic stress has been initiated.
Although these are the two main components of the fetal response to hypoxic stress, other responses such as changes in the fetal breathing pattern and changes in the fetal brain activity can also occur. It is important to understand these responses in order to identify potential risks to the fetus and provide appropriate interventions.
