What is the normal range for fetal heart rate during the third trimester?

What is the normal range for fetal heart rate during the third trimester?

• A. 80-120 beats per minute
• B. 120-140 beats per minute
• C. 110-160 beats per minute
• D. 160-180 beats per minute

Answer: (C)

The normal range for fetal heart rate during the third trimester is indeed 110-160 beats per minute. This range is considered typical for a healthy fetus at this stage of development. Fetal heart rates within this range reflect adequate oxygenation and overall well-being of the fetus. Monitoring fetal heart rate is an essential part of prenatal care and can indicate the health of the fetus; deviations from this range may warrant further evaluation. In the context of the question, the other ranges provided are outside the established normal limits for fetal heart rates during the third trimester. A range of 80-120 beats per minute would be too low, potentially indicating bradycardia, while 120-140 beats per minute, although closer, still does not encompass the full normal range. Similarly, a range of 160-180 beats per minute is considered tachycardic and may suggest fetal distress or other issues that need to be investigated. Understanding these parameters is vital for assessing fetal health during pregnancy.

The normal range for fetal heart rate during the third trimester is indeed 110-160 beats per minute. This range is considered typical for a healthy fetus at this stage of development. Fetal heart rates within this range reflect adequate oxygenation and overall well-being of the fetus. Monitoring fetal heart rate is an essential part of prenatal care and can indicate the health of the fetus; deviations from this range may warrant further evaluation.

In the context of the question, the other ranges provided are outside the established normal limits for fetal heart rates during the third trimester. A range of 80-120 beats per minute would be too low, potentially indicating bradycardia, while 120-140 beats per minute, although closer, still does not encompass the full normal range. Similarly, a range of 160-180 beats per minute is considered tachycardic and may suggest fetal distress or other issues that need to be investigated. Understanding these parameters is vital for assessing fetal health during pregnancy.