An introductory chapter looks at the history and development of fetal heart rate monitoring, present methods of fetal heart monitoring, care and use of equipment. A checklist for electronic fetal heart monitoring is provided. The final chapter is a debate between the two authors on the issues surrounding electronic fetal heart monitoring. They consider the pros and cons, the ethical issues and the midwife's responsibilities and provide some answers to these thorny questions. The text is supported by a wide range of antenatal and labour fetal heart rate traces to help the midwife, develop her ability to interpret cardiotocograph traces. Most chapters are summarised with key facts and case histories are included. The book includes a reference section, a glossary of terms and a list of recommended further reading.