Abstract: A method and apparatus for deriving a pulse sequence corresponding to a fetal heart rate (FHR) from a composite ECG signal which includes a signal from a second source, such as from the mother or a twin. A peak detection technique is used to identify apparent QRS complex signal components in the composite ECG signal, which are then compared against a template by calculating a statistical correlation coefficient. If the correlation result exceeds a predetermined threshold, the complex is flagged as a match. The template is an adaptive one, and is initialized by taking the complexes associated with the first n peaks encountered in the composite ECG signal. It is then continuously updated with each QRS complex which provides an exceptional match. After event sorting and output validation, a sequence of pulses is produced which represents the fetal heartbeat and which can be passed to a conventional heart rate monitor for display.

Abstract: Apparatus for providing an indication of uterine activity in labor is described. Intrauterine pressure above the basal pressure existing between contractions is integrated over intervals of between ten and thirty minutes to give the required indication. An algorithm is disclosed for calculating dosage of a labor inducing substance, the algorithm containing safeguards to prevent hyperstimulation.