What Is Fetal Bradycardia in Pregnancy?
Pregnancy scans are an important part of monitoring a baby’s growth and well-being. While reading scan reports, many parents notice heart rate values and may feel anxious if the numbers fluctuate. One medical term that often creates concern is fetal bradycardia.
At Nisarga Diagnostics, we regularly counsel expectant parents and help them understand scan findings in a simple, reassuring way. Let’s break down what fetal bradycardia really means and when it should (and should not) worry you.
Watch our video on : What Is Fetal Bradycardia in Pregnancy?
What Is a Normal Fetal Heart Rate?
A baby’s heart begins beating very early in pregnancy. As the baby grows, the heart rate changes depending on gestational age and activity.
Normal fetal heart rate range:
120 to 180 beats per minute (bpm)
It is completely normal for the heart rate to:
Increase when the baby is active
Decrease slightly when the baby is resting
Vary during different phases of the scan
📌 Heart rate variations are a sign of a healthy nervous system in most pregnancies.
What Is Fetal Bradycardia?
Fetal Bradycardia means the baby’s heart rate is lower than normal, specifically:
Below 120 bpm
Common examples include 90–100 bpm
However, it is very important to understand this:
👉 A single or brief drop in heart rate does NOT mean fetal bradycardia.
Temporary Heart Rate Drops – Are They Normal?
Yes. During pregnancy scans—especially around the 5th month—it is common to see temporary drops in heart rate due to:
Baby changing position
Baby sleeping or less active
Probe pressure during scanning
Short reflex responses
In most cases:
The heart rate returns to normal within seconds or minutes
The baby remains perfectly healthy
📌 This is not considered fetal bradycardia.
When Is It Truly Called Fetal Bradycardia?
Doctors use the term fetal bradycardia only when:
The heart rate stays consistently below 120 bpm
Multiple readings during the scan show low bpm
The heart rate does not recover during observation
This is why experienced radiologists always observe the heart rate over time, not just one number.
Common Causes of Persistent Fetal Bradycardia
Persistent fetal bradycardia is uncommon, but when present, it may be associated with:
Umbilical cord compression
Placental issues
Maternal medical conditions
Fetal heart rhythm abnormalities
Reduced oxygen supply (in rare cases)
Further evaluation depends on:
Gestational age
Severity of heart rate drop
Overall scan findings
Myths vs Facts About Baby Heart Rate
❌ Myth: A heart rate of 130 bpm is low
✅ Fact: 130 bpm is completely normal
❌ Myth: Any drop in heart rate is dangerous
✅ Fact: Only persistent low heart rate needs attention
❌ Myth: One abnormal reading means emergency
✅ Fact: Doctors always look at trends, not single values
How Pregnancy Scans Help in Early Detection?
At all diagnosting center, fetal heart rate is assessed using:
Advanced ultrasound technology
Doppler evaluation when required
Proper scanning time for accurate readings
Experienced professionals who understand normal variations
This ensures:
Correct interpretation
Avoidance of unnecessary panic
Early detection when follow-up is truly needed
When Should You Consult Your Doctor?
You should consult your doctor if:
-
The scan report mentions persistent fetal bradycardia
-
You are advised for repeat or follow-up pregnancy scans
-
There are additional findings along with low heart rate
Never self-diagnose based on scan numbers alone.
Can Fetal Bradycardia Be Managed?
In many cases:
Mild or temporary heart rate changes resolve on their own
Doctors may simply monitor with follow-up scans
If persistent:
Further tests may be advised
Pregnancy management is planned carefully
Early detection helps protect both mother and baby
