A decrease in fetal heart rate variability is often associated with which condition?

A decrease in fetal heart rate variability is indeed commonly associated with fetal distress. Fetal heart rate variability refers to the fluctuations in the heart rate of the fetus and is a critical parameter in assessing fetal well-being. When the fetus experiences distress, such as from hypoxia or other compromises in its environment, its heart rate may become more stable and less variable. This reduction in variability indicates that the autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate, may be responding to stress or inadequate oxygenation.

In contrast, a normal delivery typically shows sufficient variability as the fetus is well-oxygenated and healthy. Increased fetal movement is indicative of well-being and is often associated with increased heart rate variability. Maternal relaxation, while beneficial for labor progression and maternal well-being, does not directly relate to a decrease in fetal heart rate variability, which is more influenced by fetal conditions rather than maternal emotional states. Thus, the association of decreased fetal heart rate variability with fetal distress is critical for clinical monitoring and decision-making in obstetric care.