According to fetal monitoring, what does a prolonged decel indicate?

A prolonged deceleration in fetal heart rate typically indicates a potential compromise in fetal oxygenation. This is characterized by a decrease in the baseline fetal heart rate that lasts longer than 2 minutes but less than 10 minutes. Such a deceleration can signal that the fetus is experiencing stress, often due to issues like uteroplacental insufficiency or umbilical cord compression. Recognizing this type of deceleration is crucial because it prompts healthcare providers to assess the fetal condition further and intervene if necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, understanding that a prolonged deceleration suggests potential problems with the delivery of oxygen to the fetus is key for effective monitoring and intervention during labor.