What might be suggested if there is a significant decrease in FHR variability?

A significant decrease in fetal heart rate (FHR) variability typically indicates fetal distress. Variability in FHR is an important indicator of fetal well-being; it reflects the autonomic nervous system's regulation of the fetal heart and the overall health and well-being of the fetus. When there is a marked decline in this variability, it is often a sign that the fetus may be experiencing some form of stress, which could be due to factors such as hypoxia, maternal conditions, or umbilical cord issues.

In clinical practice, decreased variability is closely monitored as it can necessitate further evaluation and intervention to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Understanding FHR patterns, including variability, is crucial for healthcare providers in assessing fetal health during labor and delivery, and when decreased variability is noted, it generally warrants further investigation into potential distress.