How often should contractions last for a Contraction Stimulation Test to be valid?

For a Contraction Stimulation Test (CST) to be valid, contractions should ideally last at least 40 seconds in a 10-minute period. This duration ensures that the contractions are sufficiently strong and consistent enough to be assessed for their impact on fetal heart rate patterns and overall fetal well-being.

Contractions that last 40 seconds provide the necessary stimulus to evaluate how the fetus responds to the stress induced by uterine contractions. A shorter duration may not elicit an appropriate response in fetal heart rate, leading to inconclusive or unreliable test results. This makes 40 seconds the optimal threshold for validity in this test, allowing healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding management and intervention if needed.