Quantitative analysis of fetal behavioural patterns with real-time sonography and the actocardiograph

Abstract

Fetal heart rate patterns, isolated and clustered fetal movements, fetal eye and breathing movements were analysed simultaneously and semiquantitatively in 20 uncomplicated pregnancies in accordance with the classification of fetal behavioural states by Nijhuis and with the aid of two ultrasound scanners and the actocardiograph. According to our own definition state 1 F, 2 F, 3 F and 4 F were observed in 29, 34, 8, and 14% of the registration time. In 15% no state could be identified. Using only the actocardiograph state 1 F, 2 F and 4 F could be identified in around 75%. Periods without a state diagnosis could not be assessed by the actocardiograph alone. The combination of the actocardiograph and one ultrasound scanner for the observation of fetal eye movements reached a similar diagnostic accuracy as the polygraphic monitoring with two ultrasound scanners.