Fetal scalp pH testing is a quick test performed when a woman goes into active labor to determine if the baby is getting enough oxygen. This procedure takes about 5 minutes. The  test cannot be done if the mother’s cervix is not dialed.

If the woman is dilated 3 cm to 4 cm, it can be done. The woman lays on her back with her feet in stirrups. A plastic cone is placed in the vagina and fit snugly against the scalp of the fetus.

The fetus scalp is cleansed and a small blood sample taken for examination. The blood is collected in a small tube and taken to the lab to be analyzed . The results are ready within a few minutes.

Why is this test performed ?

A fetal heart monitor may not always provide enough information about the well being of the baby. In such cases, this test is done to determine if the baby is getting enough oxygen. The doctor will then use the results to  determine if the baby can continue with labor or if forceps  delivery or cesarean section is the best option.

This test is however not recommended for mothers with infections such as HIV or hepatitis.

What is the risk  associated fetal scalp pH testing ?

Risk associated with this procedure include the following :

• bruising  of the baby’s scalp
• infection
• continued bleeding from the punctured site especially when the fetus has pH imbalance