What type of decelerations are seen in Category II FHT?

Category II fetal heart tone patterns are used to describe pieces of data that are not clearly reassuring or non-reassuring, and they can include a variety of decelerations. The presence of recurrent late decelerations with minimal variability specifically indicates a degree of fetal compromise that is concerning but not as severe as in Category III patterns, which are ominous and require immediate intervention.

Recurrent late decelerations suggest that there may be uteroplacental insufficiency, which is a cause for concern regarding potential fetal well-being. The minimal variability in association with these late decelerations further indicates a compromised state; this diminished variability can reflect a level of fetal distress or acidemia that necessitates closer monitoring and possible intervention.

Other types of decelerations, such as variable decelerations or prolonged decelerations, may be present but are not defining characteristics of Category II patterns. Identifying the specific presence of recurrent late decelerations with minimal variability places it squarely in a concern category, making it a suitable marker for monitoring fetal status. This is why the identification of this type of deceleration in Category II is significant.