What method is used to detect heart sounds in fetal monitoring?

The fetoscope is a specialized tool used in fetal monitoring to detect and amplify the sounds of the fetal heartbeat. It is analogous to a stethoscope, specifically designed for examining pregnant women and listening to the fetal heart sounds. The fetoscope allows healthcare providers to hear the fetal heartbeat clearly, which is crucial for assessing the well-being of the fetus throughout the pregnancy and during labor.

This method is particularly beneficial because it is non-invasive and provides an immediate auditory assessment of the fetal condition, allowing for timely intervention if necessary. It is commonly used in settings where technology like ultrasound may not be readily available, making it a classic yet effective choice for monitoring fetal heart sounds.

Other methods mentioned, such as portable ECG, ultrasound, and cardiotocography, serve different purposes: portable ECG is primarily used for maternal cardiac assessment, ultrasound provides images of the fetus rather than just heart sounds, and cardiotocography continuously records the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions but may rely on electronic equipment rather than manual auscultation. Therefore, the fetoscope remains the correct choice specifically for detecting heart sounds in fetal monitoring.