[ozmidwifery] fetal heart in labour

[Lesley Kuliukas]

Hi all I would really appreciate some opinions on frequency of listening to the FH in labour, particularly the second stage. I've always listened in every half hour in early labour, 15 minutely in cracking labour and after every contraction (and through some of them) in the second stage. I know of some midwives who do not feel this is necessary and so I'd love to hear more opinions. What I wonder is if the FH is not being listened in to how would you know whether to expedite the birth? Also if the worst happened how would it stand up in court? Thanks Lesley