See Also
Definition
1. Variable in relation to contraction
2. Variable shape of deceleration
3. Abrupt onset and return (steep slope of change)
  1. Contrast with other decelerations
4. Associated with small acceleration
Physiology
1. Cord compression
2. Often benign if mild deceleration in active labor
3. May represent uteroplacental insufficiency for some
Grading Variables
1. Mild Variable Deceleration
  1. Variable deceleration <30 seconds
  2. Fetal Heart Rate 80-120 bpm
  3. Fetal Heart Rate 70-120 bpm for <60 seconds
2. Moderate Variable Deceleration
  1. Fetal Heart Rate <70 bpm for 30-60 seconds
  2. Fetal Heart Rate 70-120 bpm for >60 seconds
3. Severe Variable Deceleration
  1. Fetal Heart Rate <70 bpm for >60 seconds
Interpretation
1. More reassuring
  1. Acceleration just before variable ("Shoulder")
  2. Good baseline variability
  3. Rapid descent and recovery
2. Non-Reassuring
  1. Repetitive severe decelerations
    1. Fetal Heart Rate <70 bpm for >60 seconds
    2. Occurs repeatedly over 20 minute observation
  2. Loss of "Shoulder" accelerations
  3. Loss of short-term variability
  4. Slow recovery from deceleration
  5. Baseline tachycardia
References
1. Bailey (2000) ALSO, E:1-13
2. Gabbe (2002) Obstetrics, p. 395
3. Rylander (2001) Clin Fam Pract 3(2):287

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This page was written by Scott Moses, MD. This page was last revised before 5/10/08, prior to consistent tracking of revision date. This page was last published on 6/1/2008. Please send comments and questions to the editor. Contact information may be found on the page About the Family Practice Notebook. These pages are best viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0.