Fetal Heart Rate Part II: Behavioral Correlates

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Abstract
Relatively recent technological developments have made possible continuous electronic monitoring of fetal heart rate (FHR) during labor. These developments have added a new dimension to the understanding of fetal responses to labor. The FHR response to labor is thought to be a multidimensional phenomenon. This study was designed to determine the type and degree of relationship between multiple FHR factors and dimensions of neonatal behavior scored with the Brazelton Newborn Behavior Assessment Scale. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, infants from complicated pregnancies and deliveries were excluded. The behavioral assessment was administered to 90 2–3 day old newborn infants. FHR was recorded during labor and the last hour of recorded FHR was analyzed for the study. Six factors were derived from measures of FHR (e.g. amplitude, frequency, decelerations, accelerations) and were used in a step‐wise multiple regression analysis. Significant multiple correlations were found between FHR factor composites and infant behavioral dimensions of attention‐orientation and arousal.