If a baby appears in distress on the fetal heart monitor, the standard of care typically requires a decision to be made to deliver the baby. Delay in delivery can result in brain injury to the baby caused by lack of oxygen. The baby can withstand some insult and be resuscitated after birth to avoid injury. If the distress lasts for too long (around 30 minutes or longer) without intervention, the lack of oxygen (hypoxia) can result in permanent brain injury and lead to cerebral palsy.