In which situation is a patient encouraged to perform fetal monitoring?

Fetal monitoring during antepartum care is essential because it allows healthcare providers to assess the well-being of the fetus before labor begins. This monitoring can help identify any potential risks or complications that may affect the pregnancy. By using techniques such as non-stress tests or biophysical profiles, clinicians can evaluate fetal heart rate patterns and overall health, which are crucial in guiding management decisions throughout the pregnancy.

Active labor is also a critical time for fetal monitoring, where continuous monitoring could provide valuable information about the fetus's condition during contractions. However, this scenario highlights the importance of monitoring during the antepartum phase, where proactive measures can be taken to ensure positive outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Monitoring during the third trimester is somewhat more limited in scope compared to the comprehensive assessments performed during antepartum care, which encompasses the entirety of the pregnancy, allowing for earlier detection and intervention for any emerging issues.