Fetal monitoring system and method

Abstract

A system and method is provided for monitoring the fetal position and / or orientation of the fetus of an expectant mother. An acoustic sensor array is positioned over the belly. The pattern of acousticsensor signals is processed to determine a fetal orientation and / or to determine movement over time of the fetus.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to fetal monitoring systems and methods. Background technique [0002] Fetal movement is very important in assessing fetal health and well-being. Kicks may refer to any kind of movement of any part of the fetus. Normal fetal movement requires intact neuromuscular function and adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the central nervous system. An actual decrease in fetal movement may indicate fetal harm or predict adverse fetal outcome. Beginning in the second trimester, health care providers recommend that pregnant women count fetal movements at least once a day. An average of 3 to 5 times per hour indicates fetal health. Shortages in oxygen supply can lead to too little or too much movement, which requires contacting a health care provider. [0003] Information about fetal movement and position, in addition to clinical indications, can provide expectant parents with knowledge of how the fetus is, thus giving pleas...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, current fetal monitors use a single probe that is not capable of capturing fetal position or orientation information due to lack of spatial resolution

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