What corrective measure may be utilized for variable decelerations of fetal heart rate?

Amnioinfusion is a corrective measure specifically designed to address variable decelerations of the fetal heart rate, which often occur due to umbilical cord compression. This procedure involves the infusion of a sterile fluid (usually saline) into the amniotic cavity through a catheter placed in the uterus. By increasing the volume of fluid around the fetus, amnioinfusion can alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord, potentially resolving the variable decelerations.

This intervention is particularly beneficial when the decelerations are intermittent and can be linked to conditions such as oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid). By enhancing the cushioning effect the amniotic fluid provides, amnioinfusion can help maintain normal blood flow and oxygenation to the fetus during labor.

In contrast, other options such as vaginal delivery, cesarean section, and external fetal monitoring do not directly address the underlying cause of variable decelerations. While vaginal delivery and cesarean section may be necessary depending on the overall clinical scenario and fetal well-being, they do not serve as specific treatments for the decelerations themselves. External fetal monitoring is primarily a diagnostic tool that allows for the assessment of the fetal heart rate pattern but does not intervene in the issue causing