What type of deceleration is characterized by a gradual decrease in fetal heart rate with the nadir occurring at the same time as the peak of the contraction?

The correct answer is early deceleration. Early decelerations are characterized by a gradual decrease in the fetal heart rate that begins with the onset of a contraction and returns to baseline by the time the contraction ends. The nadir, or lowest point of the deceleration, occurs simultaneously with the peak of the contraction. This pattern is typically associated with head compression during labor and is considered a benign finding, indicating that the fetal response is a physiological reaction to the pressure on the fetal head.

In contrast, late decelerations refer to decreases in fetal heart rate that begin after the peak of a contraction and return to baseline after the contraction has ended. This pattern raises concern about uteroplacental insufficiency. Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in fetal heart rate that can vary in duration and timing and are often associated with umbilical cord compression. Prolonged decelerations are significant reductions in the fetal heart rate that last for longer than two minutes, indicating a potential fetal compromise. Understanding these differences helps in appropriately monitoring labor and recognizing the need for interventions when necessary.