What effect does advancing gestational age have on fetal heart rate, according to the findings?

Advancing gestational age has a significant effect on fetal heart rate (FHR). As the gestation period progresses, the fetal heart rate typically decreases. This decrease occurs due to several physiological changes as the fetus develops; one key factor is the maturation of the autonomic nervous system.

During early pregnancy, the fetal heart rate is generally higher as the fetus is still developing essential systems. As gestation continues, particularly after around 28 weeks, the heart rate tends to stabilize and may decrease toward the lower range of normal, which is generally considered to be between 120 to 160 beats per minute for a healthy fetus. This stabilization allows healthcare professionals to monitor the fetal heart rate effectively and assess fetal well-being.

Understanding this trend is crucial for practitioners monitoring fetal health, as deviations from expected heart rate patterns can signify potential complications. Recognizing that the FHR decreases with advancing gestational age helps in establishing baseline rates and addressing any abnormal changes promptly.