What should be done if there is persistent bradycardia in the fetus?

When faced with persistent fetal bradycardia, assessing potential cord compression is a critical step. This condition may indicate that the fetus is experiencing compromised oxygen supply, often due to mechanical factors such as umbilical cord compression. Identifying this can lead to prompt interventions that may alleviate the issue, such as changing the mother's position or performing other maneuvers to relieve the pressure on the cord.

It’s important to note that simply monitoring the fetal heart rate can provide some information but does not address the underlying problem. Medication may be useful, but it typically would not be the first intervention taken in response to fetal bradycardia. Positioning the mother can be beneficial, yet the first priority should typically be to identify and assess whether cord compression is the underlying cause of the bradycardia. This holistic approach allows for the adaptation of care strategies aimed at improving fetal well-being.