Abstract: During childbirth, trauma to the infant can readily arise, ultimately resulting in fetal hypoxia, academia, and brain damage. Such unfavorable conditions can be best ascertained by real-time monitoring of the fetus' blood-oxygen level, heart rate monitoring, EKG and EEG waveforms. This invention describes a system of monitoring devices to implement such goals and maximize the potential welfare of the fetus. It furthermore allows the formation of a reference database that can correlate intrapartum events from prior births. The embodiments utilize a small-diameter sensor inserted into the birth canal through a tubular insertion rod. Through wire, fiber optics, and or using a radio frequency link, fetal monitor data can be analyzed, compared to existing data base, and or transmitted via internet. This patent details various apparatuses that allow important life-sign parameters of a fetus to be continuously monitored.

Abstract: An oximeter probe is introduced through the vaginal canal and applied to the scalp or other readily accessible part of the fetus while still in utero. The fetal oxygenation is monitored during the entire labor and delivery period to obtain instantaneous indications of any peripartum fetal distress. The probe comprises a clamping device which can be easily manipulated within the narrow confines of the partially dilated cervix.