Which of the following is NOT a reason for absent fetal variability?

Which of the following is NOT a reason for absent fetal variability?

• A. Fetal sleep
• B. Prematurity
• C. Excess sodium intake
• D. Hypoxia

Answer: (C)

Absent fetal variability can occur due to several physiological and pathological conditions that affect the fetus's autonomic nervous system and overall well-being. Fetal variability, which refers to the fluctuations in the baseline fetal heart rate, is a sign of a healthy, responsive fetus, and its absence can indicate potential concerns. Fetal sleep is a natural occurrence where the fetus may have periods of inactivity, resulting in decreased variability. This is a normal physiological state and is often not concerning unless it persists for extended periods. Prematurity is another factor that can lead to absent fetal variability because the immature central nervous system of a preterm fetus may not be fully capable of generating variability. This can be a common finding in fetuses born before 28 weeks of gestation. Hypoxia refers to a lack of adequate oxygen supply to the fetus, which can lead to absent variability due to the fetus's distress and compromised circulatory system. This is a significant concern and often indicates a need for urgent medical attention. Excess sodium intake does not have a direct correlation with absent fetal variability. While maternal nutrition and hydration are important for fetal health, there is no established link suggesting that high sodium intake specifically leads to decreased fetal heart rate variability. Therefore, this is the correct choice as it

Absent fetal variability can occur due to several physiological and pathological conditions that affect the fetus's autonomic nervous system and overall well-being. Fetal variability, which refers to the fluctuations in the baseline fetal heart rate, is a sign of a healthy, responsive fetus, and its absence can indicate potential concerns.

Fetal sleep is a natural occurrence where the fetus may have periods of inactivity, resulting in decreased variability. This is a normal physiological state and is often not concerning unless it persists for extended periods.

Prematurity is another factor that can lead to absent fetal variability because the immature central nervous system of a preterm fetus may not be fully capable of generating variability. This can be a common finding in fetuses born before 28 weeks of gestation.

Hypoxia refers to a lack of adequate oxygen supply to the fetus, which can lead to absent variability due to the fetus's distress and compromised circulatory system. This is a significant concern and often indicates a need for urgent medical attention.

Excess sodium intake does not have a direct correlation with absent fetal variability. While maternal nutrition and hydration are important for fetal health, there is no established link suggesting that high sodium intake specifically leads to decreased fetal heart rate variability. Therefore, this is the correct choice as it