Abstract: A non-invasive fetal probe having enhanced adhesion and electrical isolation for attaching to the presenting part of a fetus and sensing at least one fetal parameter during labor and delivery. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electrical isolation of the fetal probe includes a non-conductive element used in combination with various conductive assemblies made from gel formulations which are polymerized to form a fetal sensor. The non-conductive element in addition to providing physical separation also enhances electrical separation between fetal and maternal sensing elements of the fetal probe. Non-invasive fetal probes having low-profile designs are also provided which help decrease the tendency of the fetal probes to detach caused by forces generated upon the probe by the head of the fetus, the cervix of the mother, or both.

Abstract: A biocompatible hydrogel adhesive which is prepared from a precursor containing acrylic acid and an alcoholamine and is adhesive under both wet and dry conditions. The use of diisopropanolamine provides these unexpected and unique wet tack properties and permits adhesion to wet tissue. Additionally, the use of a polyol which contains hydroxyl groups, such as glycerine, and a diamine, such as 2-methylpentamethylenediamine, is found to provide a hydrogel having wet adhesive properties and longer shelf life. The hydrogel adhesive can be used as an attachment means in conjunction with a biomedical detection or monitoring means. The adhesive may be used to attach a sensor on the skin of an intrautero fetus and to monitor the well being of the fetus during labor and delivery. The hydrogel having wet adhesive properties permits the attachment of a sensor or sensors onto wet tissue. The biocompatible adhesive is used to attach a fetal probe securely to a fetus.

Abstract: A non-invasive fetal probe attaching to the presenting part of a fetus and sensing at least one fetal parameter during labor and delivery. The body of the probe is formed of a conductive hydrogel which is adhesive to both wet and dry surfaces. The hydrogel is either formed into a suction cup shape or is coated on the inside surface of a suction cup shell. It is the combination of both the suction cup shape, which initially holds the probe to the fetus, and the hydrogel material, which allows for increased adhesion in the wet environment of the mother's womb, which enables the probe to be securely attached to the fetus during labor and delivery. In one specific embodiment, the probe is a non-invasive fetal heart rate probe having a maternal heart rate sensor which detects the maternal heart rate to serve as a reference and a fetal heart rate sensor for monitoring the fetal heart rate. The maternal and fetal heart rate sensors are separated by an electrical insulation material which can form the suction cup.