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Cardiotocography (NST) Emergency Evaluation

Emergency interpretation of foetal heart rate and uterine contractions to assess foetal wellbeing.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Cardiotocography (NST) Emergency Evaluation?

Cardiotocography (CTG) is a fundamental obstetric monitoring method that simultaneously records the foetal heart rate (FHR) pattern and uterine contraction activity to evaluate foetal wellbeing.

Also known as the non-stress test (NST), it is used particularly in high-risk pregnancies and during labour to detect foetal distress.

Interpreting baseline heart rate, variability, accelerations and deceleration patterns provides information about foetal oxygenation.

Symptoms

Reduced foetal movements
High-risk pregnancy follow-up (preeclampsia, diabetes, IUGR)
Postterm pregnancy assessment
Foetal monitoring during labour
Foetal evaluation in vaginal bleeding
Foetal monitoring after membrane rupture

Risk Factors

False positive results (risk of unnecessary surgical intervention)
Foetal sleep cycle interpreted as a non-reactive test
Reduced signal quality in obese pregnancies
Probe displacement with foetal movement
Diagnostic errors with inexperienced interpretation
Inadequacy of an abnormal CTG alone in surgical decision-making

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Marked reduction or cessation of foetal movements
  • Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
  • Premature rupture of membranes (waters breaking)
  • Abdominal pain together with pregnancy concerns

Treatment Methods

01
Standard 20-minute NST recording
02
Evaluation of baseline foetal heart rate, variability and accelerations
03
Analysis of deceleration patterns (early, late, variable)
04
Vibroacoustic stimulation in non-reactive tests
05
Additional tests in abnormal CTG (biophysical profile, Doppler)
06
Evaluation for emergency caesarean indication (pathological CTG)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.