Amidst the barrage of tests you’ll get during pregnancy, one interesting screening is CTG monitoring. The initials stand for cardiotocography, and, in simple terms, it is a test done with equipment that can read the baby’s heartbeat in utero.
Why use CTG?
CTG monitoring allows your doctor to screen your baby’s resting heart rate. It reveals how active they are and how they react to your uterine contractions . These data give your doctor insights into the baby’s well-being, such as whether they are getting enough oxygen and nutrition. CTG is also known as a child welfare screening [1].
How is CTG performed?
Two sensors run from the CTG machine to your abdomen. The first sensor continuously records the baby’s heartbeat, while the second monitors your uterine contractions and any response from the baby. The machine records data from both sensors and then prints a graph your doctor will interpret. You can expect the scan to take about 20 minutes [1].
When and how often do I need a CTG scan?
Regular CTGs are only necessary during higher-risk or complicated pregnancies. In those cases, you may have one every two weeks. Most often, though, they’re used in early labor. CTG can be very helpful to your doctor during labor and delivery, letting them know when medical intervention is necessary [1].
What are these “complicated” pregnancies where regular CTGs may be needed?
Some of the conditions that may call for additional screening are [1]:
when you’re expecting twins or other multiples;
if you have had a C-section in the past;
Rh incompatibility between mother and baby;
if you have high blood pressure or preeclampsia;
if you have a history of kidney disease, autoimmune disease, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or some viral or infectious diseases;
the presence of placental abnormalities that might deprive the baby of needed nourishment or oxygen;
if there are signs that the baby’s development is delayed;
when pregnancy lasts longer than 41 weeks.
What else should I know about CTG?
On its own, CTG is not reliable enough to determine the health and welfare of your baby. The danger in using only a CTG to make medical assessments is that your doctor may not intervene early enough, or they may intervene when it’s not really needed [2]. CTG should only be used as an additional source of information, evaluated in conjunction with clinical assessments, regular and Doppler ultrasounds, and other tests.
