Transitory sinusoidal patterns have been described secondary to fetal breathing movements and only in this situation should a cesarean section be avoided. Also, identification of the head station may detect cases in which vaginal delivery is the fastest route of delivery. Both oxygen administration and administration of fluids may only delay proper treatment. This type of resucitative effort has been shown to be frequently effective in management of fetal distress. Although not clearly proven to be better than intermittent fetal heart rate auscultation, new data suggests a potential for reducing intrapartum fetal death and even cerebral palsy in term fetuses.
Fetal distress is an outdated term that continues to be widely used in modern obstetrics.
Although use of this terminology should be discouraged it usually refers to a deteriorating fetal status. Whenever signs suggestive of developing fetal acidosis are identified, a careful evaluation of the situation and a structured approach to management may prevent many cases of unnecessary surgical intervention.