Low fetal heart rate?

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

I AM NOT LOOKING FOR MEDICAL ADVICE:nono:. I wanted to say that right off. Instead, I am looking to find out what a good fetal heart rate is for 21 weeks. My little girl's heart rate has always been high one fourties, around 150. I went for my "19 week anatomical" and was told that the baby's fhr was "only" 131 bpm. The term "only" scared me because this is a high risk pregnancy and I always was lead to believe in school that normal range was 120-160. She is already 1 pound 2 ounces by ultrasound, which I suppose is large for 21 weeks? :mad: I was also told that I needed to come back in three weeks for a follow up scan of the heart and spine :uhoh21:. Then this morning the nurse from my ob/gyn called to tell me that they have extended my disability until after my next ob appointment at least. I was supposed to be okay to go back to work next Monday. My question is, is 130 a good heart rate for a fetus in the 21-24 week range?

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Specializes in Infection Preventionist/ Occ Health.

My professor told us 120-160 bpm for the fetal heart rate, and that's what my textbook says as well.

I would suggest calling the office and asking them to explain why they want you to come in for the scan. Most providers are pretty good about telling you why if you take the time to ask.

Good luck!

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Specializes in PICU.

110-160 is a normal fetal heart rate and I don't feel 131 is low. We don't consider that abnormal at all especially not in a 21 weeker.

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You didn't say why you are considered a high risk pregnancy...but normal fht's are 120-160 bpm. They vary from minute to minute(not static) If someone told you the baby's heart rate was only 131 she's not very experienced for one thing. Your doctor usually won't start having you do nonstress tests until you are 26 weeks, since that's when the fetal nervous system is developed enough to measure reactivity. If your doctor specializes in high risk pregnancies then he should be able to allay your fears and concerns. Ask him/her questions. Relax and enjoy your pregnancy, evrything so far sounds fine.

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

The heart rate is fine.

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