What may be a sign of maternal fever after spontaneous rupture of membranes?

A heightened fetal heart rate above 160 beats per minute can be indicative of maternal fever after spontaneous rupture of membranes. This condition can lead to chorioamnionitis, which is an infection of the amniotic fluid and membranes. In response to maternal infection, the fetus may experience stress, leading to elevated heart rates.

Monitoring fetal heart rate patterns is a critical aspect of assessing fetal well-being, especially in situations where maternal health is compromised, such as a fever. An increased fetal heart rate can signal that the fetus is responding to conditions within the intrauterine environment that may necessitate closer observation or intervention.

Other signs and symptoms may be present with maternal fever, but an elevated fetal heart rate is a reliable indicator that warrants further evaluation and management to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus.