CTG: an essential tool in obstetric care and pregnancy monitoring

Cardiotocography (CTG) is one of the most widely used and important tools in obstetric care and pregnancy monitoring. By using CTG, healthcare professionals can monitor the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. It is a non-invasive method that provides crucial information about the health of both the mother and baby, allowing swift intervention when necessary. It is, therefore, an essential tool not only during childbirth but also throughout pregnancy when close monitoring of the fetus is required.

What is CTG and why is it used?

CTG stands for cardiotocography, a method of measuring both the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. The term ”CTG” also refers to the sensors that are placed on the pregnant woman’s abdomen to capture these measurements. The device is secured to the abdomen using an elastic belt, known as the CTG band, which records the data in real time and displays it on a monitor.

CTG measures two key parameters:

Fetal heart rate:

The fetal heart rate is a crucial indicator of the baby’s health. Monitoring the heart rate helps detect any abnormal changes that might indicate the baby is not receiving enough oxygen, which could signal potential risks. A normal fetal heart rate typically ranges between 110 and 160 beats per minute. Values outside this range may indicate complications.

Uterine contractions:

Measuring contractions is equally important. Contractions are a natural part of labour, but tay prolong labour. By monitoring their strength and frequency, healthcare professionals can assess whether labour is progressing normally.heir intensity and frequency can impact the baby. If contractions are too intense or too frequent, they may cause distress to the fetus. Conversely, contractions that are too weak m

Pre-delivery CTG: monitoring during pregnancy

Even before labour begins, CTG is used to monitor fetal health in various situations. If a pregnant woman visits the maternity ward for a check-up, a CTG can be performed to ensure the baby’s well-being.

There are several situations where CTG monitoring may be necessary:

• Signs of complications: If the mother experiences concerning symptoms, such as reduced fetal movement, abdominal pain, bleeding, or other signs of pregnancy complications, a doctor or midwife may use CTG to quickly assess fetal health and uterine activity.
• High-risk pregnancies: Women with high-risk pregnancies—such as those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of obstetric complications—may require more frequent CTG monitoring. This allows early detection of potential issues affecting both mother and baby.
• Monitoring fetal movements: If the baby is moving less than usual, CTG can be used to check whether the fetal heart rate remains within a normal range, providing insight into possible oxygen deprivation (hypoxia).
• Routine check-ups: In some cases, CTG is performed as part of a routine assessment, especially as labour approaches, to confirm the baby’s well-being before delivery.

Although CTG is not used continuously throughout pregnancy, it is an invaluable tool for ensuring the health of both mother and baby. In cases of complications, it can be utilised multiple times before delivery to gain insight into the fetus’s condition.

CTG during childbirth

During labour, CTG is used to monitor both the baby and the uterus. It is vital to track the fetal heart rate and contractions closely, as this information provides essential insight into labour progression and any potential risks to the baby.

• Ensuring fetal safety: If any concerning changes in the fetal heart rate are detected, for example, if it becomes too low or too high, the doctor or midwife can take immediate action. This may include administering medication, repositioning the mother, or, in critical cases, performing an emergency caesarean section.
• Assessing contractions: If contractions are too strong or too frequent, they may negatively impact the fetus by reducing oxygen supply. Conversely, insufficient contractions may delay labour. In such cases, doctors may intervene to stimulate contractions and support the progress of labour.

Why Do CTG Bands Have Different Colours?

CTG monitoring plays a vital role in ensuring the health of both mother and baby, and the design of CTG bands helps make the process as efficient as possible. Color-coded bands help healthcare professionals quickly distinguish between sensors, improving accuracy and response time during fetal monitoring.

• Blue for fetal heart rate monitoring: This makes it easy to identify heart rate data, allowing midwives and doctors to react quickly to any irregularities.
• Pink for uterine contractions: Clearly differentiating this sensor helps professionals analyze contraction patterns and assess how they are affecting labor and fetal well-being.

The use of distinct colors enhances efficiency in medical settings, but CTG bands are also available in black for those who prefer a more neutral option.

For high-quality, reliable CTG bands—available in both color-coded and black options—explore the selection offered by CetroMedical. Investing in the right equipment ensures safe and effective monitoring for both mother and baby.