Improving fetal monitoring to reduce unnecessary C-sections

Proof of concept was recently established in an animal model for hypoxemia. Continuous measurement of fetal lactate subcutaneously will give instant information about the oxygenation status of the fetus and will help to better determine whether immediate delivery by caesarean section is indicated and will reduce unnecessary caesarean sections. Next steps will be to extend the proof of concept to the human situation, first in exercise-induced acidosis in healthy volunteers and next in a small-scale feasibility study in women during labor. Meanwhile, the prototype is being developed further to be compatible with real-time analysis methods.