Monitoring the fetus in labor: evidence to support the methods

Abstract

Electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) was implemented across the United States in the 1970s. By 1998, it was used in 84% of all U.S. births, regardless of whether the primary caregiver was a physician or a midwife. Numerous randomized trials have agreed that continuous EFM in labor increases the operative delivery rate, without clear benefit to the baby. Intermittent auscultation (IA) is safe and effective in low-risk pregnancies and may play a role in helping birth remain normal. Clinicians and educators are encouraged to reconsider the use of IA in the care of healthy childbearing women.