The first "CTG"

The cardiotocogram (CTG) is a simple and painless exam that helps assess how your baby is doing at that moment, recording their heart rate and the presence of uterine contractions.

In a low-risk pregnancy, the first CTG is usually performed in the final weeks of pregnancy, typically from 37-39 weeks, according to the protocols of the maternity unit where you are being cared for. In some situations, it may be necessary to start this monitoring earlier, for example if there is gestational diabetes, a baby whose growth is slower than expected, changes in the amount of amniotic fluid, or any clinical situation or symptom that warrants an earlier assessment.

Some suggestions

Before the exam, try not to go on an empty stomach and, if possible, empty your bladder so that you are more comfortable. The CTG usually lasts about 20 minutes, but it can take longer if your baby is asleep or if the team feels they need to gather more information.

Every baby has their own rhythm. If they are more "quiet" during the exam, the team may suggest some strategies to gently stimulate them, such as changing your position, having something to eat or drink, or talking to your baby. Many babies also react to your partner's voice or a song they often hear during pregnancy.

This exam shows how your baby is doing at that moment. Just like we have periods of higher activity and moments of rest, babies also alternate between phases when they are more awake and others when they are sleeping.

During the CTG, there is no "score of 10 or 20". The test is always interpreted alongside your weeks of pregnancy, your baby's movements, your medical history, and the reason why it is being performed.

You should always ask the healthcare professionals if you have any questions, as sometimes that alarm that keeps going off is "just the machine running out of paper".