What does an increase in fetal heart rate generally indicate?

An increase in fetal heart rate typically indicates good fetal well-being. In a healthy fetus, an increase in heart rate can be a sign of positive events, such as fetal movement or responses to healthy stimuli. This is usually interpreted as the fetus responding well to its environment, indicating adequate oxygenation and an appropriate response to the maternal condition. In practice, monitoring fetal heart rate can provide valuable insight into the fetus's condition during labor and throughout pregnancy, where a well-oxygenated fetus is expected to have a heart rate that reflects normal physiological adjustments.

In contrast, significant deviations from this baseline, such as a decreased heart rate or sustained tachycardia, may suggest issues like fetal distress or other complications. Understanding these signs is crucial for making informed decisions during labor and delivery to ensure both maternal and fetal health.