The most popular structure can be remembered using the acronym DR C BRAVADO: To interpret a CTG you need a structured method of assessing its various characteristics. The CTG is then assessed by a midwife and the obstetric medical team. One transducer records the fetal heart rate using ultrasound and the other transducer monitors the contractions of the uterus by measuring the tension of the maternal abdominal wall (providing an indirect indication of intrauterine pressure).

It involves the placement of two transducers onto the abdomen of a pregnant woman. The device used in cardiotocography is known as a cardiotocograph. An abnormal CTG may indicate the need for further investigations and potential intervention.Ĭheck out our CTG quiz on the Geeky Medics quiz platform to put your CTG interpretation knowledge to the test. It is most commonly used in the third trimester and its purpose is to monitor fetal well-being and allow early detection of fetal distress. Cardiotocography (CTG) is used during pregnancy to monitor fetal heart rate and uterine contractions.