Which device is used to monitor intrauterine pressure during labor?

• A. External fetal monitor.
• B. Intrauterine pressure catheter.
• C. Ultrasound transducer.
• D. Fetal scalp electrode.

Answer: (B)

Direct measurement of uterine pressure during contractions is done with an intrauterine pressure catheter. This device is threaded through the cervix into the uterus and sits inside the amniotic space to provide a direct mm Hg reading of intrauterine pressure. Because it gives a numeric pressure reading, clinicians can calculate Montevideo units (MVUs) to assess how strong contractions are over a specific time frame and determine if labor is adequately progressing or if augmentation or adjustments are needed. External fetal monitors and tocodynamometers estimate contractions from abdominal activity but do not measure true internal pressure. Ultrasound transducers monitor fetal well-being and anatomy, not uterine pressure. A fetal scalp electrode tracks fetal heart activity, not pressure.