What type of fetal heart deceleration occurs due to fetal head compression during contractions?

Early deceleration is associated specifically with fetal head compression during contractions. This type of deceleration occurs as the fetus descends into the birth canal, and it reflects a normal physiological response. As the fetal head makes contact with the cervix and pelvis, it leads to increased vagal tone, resulting in a gradual decrease in the fetal heart rate that mirrors the contraction's shape.

This pattern of deceleration begins with the onset of a contraction and returns to baseline heart rate by the time the contraction ends, making it distinct. Thus, early decelerations are considered benign and are often a normal finding during labor. Understanding the relationship between contractions and fetal heart rate patterns helps clinicians assess fetal well-being during labor.

The other types of decelerations are linked to different underlying mechanisms and may indicate potential issues. Late decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency, variable decelerations are often due to umbilical cord compression, and prolonged decelerations indicate a longer drop in heart rate which could signal fetal distress. Recognizing early decelerations as a normal response is essential in managing labor effectively.