In what conditions would you expect to see late or variable decelerations?

Late decelerations in fetal heart rate are primarily associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. This condition occurs when there is a decrease in oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus, typically due to compromised blood flow through the placenta. Late decelerations appear after a contraction has started and are a response to the decreased oxygen supply during these uterine contractions, indicating that the fetus may be experiencing stress due to inadequate placental perfusion.

Variable decelerations, on the other hand, are indicative of umbilical cord compression, which can occur during contractions or even when there is fetal movement. However, when considering late decelerations specifically, the critical factor is the impairment of blood flow to the placenta, confirming that uteroplacental insufficiency is a significant cause for concern during fetal monitoring.

Recognizing late or variable decelerations is essential as they can prompt timely medical interventions to improve both maternal and fetal outcomes, especially when uteroplacental insufficiency is identified.