Fluctuations in FHR

NR10202010 · March 2011

I've posted this over in Pregnant After a Loss too, but thought you ladies might be able to help as well...Thanks in advance for any input!

Okay, this is probably a silly question, but it's been plaguing me since my ultrasound yesterday.

A little background, I had a full-term stillbirth (39.2 weeks), so this pregnancy is considered high risk. Because of this, I have been fortunate enough to have ultrasounds on a weekly basis since 7 weeks. Once the heartrate leveled out, it has consistently been around 150-158. Last week (14.2w), it was 158. This week (15.4w) the heartrate was 138.

Is this cause for concern? I know that the range for normal FHR is something like 120-180, but are fluctuations like this okay?

I don't want to be worried, I just get so scared about everything!

sunnydaisy · March 2011

Fluctuations are normal. You might've caught baby in a sleep cycle or something. As long as it stays within the normal range, you shouldn't worry. Easier said than done sometimes though. :-)

I'm so very sorry for your loss and wish you all the best for your new LO.

nillian10 · March 2011

Well, first off, good luck to you and your little one on the way!

but, don't worry about the HR. fluctuations are normal..like PP commented!

xoxpipahxox · March 2011

First, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Secondly, fluctuations are completely normal. As PP said, as long as the HR is in the normal range, I wouldn't worry. At my last appointment alone, the HB started at 138, then jumped into the 150s. It really just matters what the baby's doing in there when the doppler catches it

+diana82+ · March 2011

Fluctuations are totally normal. Both my kids have varied between 130 and 150 and then some. Good luck to you!

Shaky23 · March 2011

I am so sorry for your loss, but so excited for you and your baby on the way.

At 14 weeks my baby's heart rate went from the high 160's to 130-140's. I have read that after 14 weeks the heart rate may begin to slow and that is totally normal. Plus if the baby is sleeping the heart rate may be slower too.