FIGO consensus guidelines on intrapartum fetal monitoring: Physiology of fetal oxygenation and the main goals of intrapartum fetal monitoring

This article focuses on themajor aspects of the physiology of oxygen supply to the fetus and the main goals of intrapartum fetal monitoring: (1) timely identification of fetuses that are being inadequately oxygenated, to enable appropriate action before the occurrence of injury; and (2) reassurance on adequate fetal oxygenation to avoid unnecessary obstetric interventions. It should be emphasized that to avoid adverse outcome, fetal surveillance requires a timely clinical response and the ready availability of both adequate equipment and trained staff in intrapartum care.