Computerized analysis of fetal heart rate indices during oral glucose tolerance test.
OBJECTIVE
To study the effect of maternal glucose ingestion during a 100 g oral glucose tolerance test on fetal heart rate indices.


METHODS
Prospective study including 50 pregnant patients with an abnormal glucose challenge test who underwent a 100 g glucose tolerance test at 26-28 weeks gestation. Fetal heart rate was recorded and analyzed with the computerized Sonicaid Fetal Monitor System (Oxford 8000).


RESULTS
Baseline fetal heart rate significantly increased 120 and 180 minutes following glucose ingestion (p < 0.05) both in patients who were subsequently diagnosed to have gestational diabetes and in these in whom the diagnosis was excluded. No significant changes were noted in other fetal heart indices.


CONCLUSIONS
The significant and consistent increase in baseline fetal heart rate following maternal glucose ingestion indicates that the fetus responds to changes in its' environment. The exact mechanism which causes this response has yet to be defined.
Weissman
Amir
A
Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel. wamir@netvision.net.il
Goldstick
Orly
O
Geva
Adam
A
Zimmer
Etan Z
EZ
D015148:Cardiotocography / Q000379:methods*; D016640:Diabetes, Gestational / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D005947:Glucose / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005951:Glucose Tolerance Test; D006340:Heart Rate, Fetal / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012016:Reference Values
D005947:Glucose