What does a normal fetal baseline heart rate typically range between?

A normal fetal baseline heart rate typically ranges between 120 to 160 beats per minute (bpm). This range is considered optimal for fetal well-being and indicates that the fetus is in a healthy environment, receiving appropriate oxygen and nutrients. The heart rate may vary briefly and is influenced by various factors, such as fetal activity, gestational age, and maternal health.

Values outside this range may indicate potential fetal distress or complications, leading healthcare providers to monitor the fetal heart rate more closely. For instance, a baseline heart rate below 120 bpm might indicate bradycardia, while a rate above 160 bpm could indicate tachycardia, both of which would require further evaluation to ensure the health and safety of the fetus. Therefore, the range of 120 to 160 bpm is the accepted standard in clinical practice for assessing fetal heart rates.