Fetal distress is indicated by which of the following?

Fetal distress is a term used to describe a situation where a fetus is not doing well and is at risk, often indicated by changes in the fetal heart rate or other signs during labor. Decreased fetal movement is a critical indicator of potential fetal distress. It often signals that the fetus may be experiencing stress or is not receiving adequate oxygen, prompting the need for further evaluation.

The connection between decreased fetal movement and fetal distress lies in the understanding that a healthy fetus typically exhibits a normal pattern of movement. A noticeable reduction in movement can suggest that the fetus is experiencing issues that could lead to complications. When monitoring a pregnancy, healthcare providers pay close attention to fetal activity, and a decline is a red flag that warrants immediate assessment.

The other options do not indicate fetal distress. A normal heart rate signifies that the fetus is likely healthy. No meconium in the amniotic fluid is generally a positive sign, indicating that the fetus has not experienced stress that would cause it to pass meconium in utero. An increased maternal heart rate can be influenced by various factors such as anxiety, pain, or exertion, but it does not directly reflect the condition of the fetus. Therefore, decreased fetal movement stands out as a direct indicator of potential fetal