How to measure the contractions?
At home, contractions can be measured with the help of a clock. The duration should be determined to the second. Therefore, the stopwatch function of a cell phone is usually very suitable.
The duration of one contraction, the time of day and the time interval to the next contraction should be determined. With the help of a table with duration, intermediate time and intensity a protocol can be created. Estimated values are usually not usable. In particular, first-time mothers who are in labor for the first time understandably estimate it to be longer and more threatening.Of course, the table can be expanded and comments on the development of contractions, pain and localization of the pain can be added. This protocol helps when the patient is admitted to the delivery room or when the midwife arrives and gives a quick overview of the progress so far.
What is a CTG?
CTG stands for Cardiotocogramm/Herzton-Wehenschreiber. During this examination, the pregnant woman lies on her back and a “belt” is strapped around her abdomen. The examination does not involve any risks (neither for the child nor for the mother).
Most gynecologists in private practice have such a device in their surgeries. According to the current maternity guidelines, in case of a physiological/normal pregnancy, no CTG examination during pregnancy is provided. However, if the pregnancy is considered a high-risk pregnancy or if complications occur, a CTG is written.
On admission to the delivery room or during childbirth, however, all pregnant women should be monitored by CTG. The CTG uses ultrasound to record the fetal heart rate. The child’s heart rate should be between 110 and 160 beats per minute.
This is well above the frequency of an adult. At the same time, the contractions are measured. Newer CTG devices can also detect child movements. If the CTG is inconspicuous, the child is most likely in good condition.
