What does a fetoscope primarily detect?

A fetoscope is a listening device specifically designed for detecting fetal heart sounds. The primary function of a fetoscope is to evaluate the fetal heart rate, which includes identifying the baseline fetal heart rate, variations in the heart rate during labor, and potential signs of fetal distress. Monitoring the fetal heart rate baseline is crucial in assessing the well-being of the fetus, as deviations from the expected range can indicate potential complications.

While other options involve important aspects of labor and delivery, such as uterine contractions or maternal heart rate, they fall outside the primary capability of a fetoscope. Uterine contractions are typically monitored using different tools, such as a tocodynamometer, while maternal heart rate can be assessed through standard monitoring methods for maternal vital signs. Similarly, fetal movements may be detected through maternal observations rather than with a fetoscope, which focuses solely on the audible sounds related to the fetal heart.