Fetal Blood Testing
Alternate Names : Fetal Scalp Blood, Scalp pH Testing
Definition
Fetal blood testing is a transvaginal (via the vagina) procedure performed during active labor. The scalp of the fetus is cleansed and pierced, and a small blood sample is taken for evaluation.
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Why is the Test Performed?
Usually this test is performed to obtain information about fetal acid-base balance (blood pH). Sometimes fetal heart monitoring doesn't provide enough information about the well-being of your baby. In these cases, testing the scalp pH can help your doctor decide whether the fetus is getting enough oxygen during labor. This helps determine whether your baby is healthy enough to continue labor, or if a forceps delivery or cesarean section might be the best route of delivery.
Although the test is not uncommon, most deliveries do not involve fetal scalp pH testing.
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