The fetus in the intrauterine environment

Abstract

The aim of modern antenatal care is to recognise any irregularities as early as possible, so that prompt and appropriate measures can be taken for the protection of mother and child. The particular purpose of monitoring of the fetus is not merely to attain a live infant, but to ensure that the newborn is in the best possible health condition. To avert the greatest danger intrauterine and postnatal hypoxia and its irreversible sequelae - the obstetrician must pay attention to every warning sign of a possible threat to the fetus.