Intrapartum fetal monitoring practices in Norway: A population-based study

Objective

To describe intrapartum fetal monitoring methods used in all births in Norway in 2019–2020, assess adherence to national guidelines, investigate variation by women’s risk status, and explore associations influencing monitoring practices.

Methods

A nationwide population-based study. We collected data about all pregnancies with a gestational age ≥ 22 weeks during 2019–2020 from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway. We used descriptive analyses, stratified for risk status, to examine fetal monitoring methods used in all deliveries. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with monitoring with cardiotocography (CTG) in low-risk, straightforward births.

Results

In total, 14 285 (14%) deliveries were monitored with only intermittent auscultation (IA), 46 214 (46%) with only CTG, and 33 417 (34%) with IA and CTG combined. Four percent (2 067/50 533) of women with risk factors were monitored with IA only. Half (10 589/21 282) of the low-risk women with straightforward births were monitored with CTG. Maternal and fetal characteristics, size of the birth unit and regional practices influenced use of CTG monitoring in this group.

Conclusions

Most births are monitored with CTG only, or combined with IA. Half the women with low-risk pregnancies and straightforward births were monitored with CTG although national guidelines recommending IA.