Hyperstimulation of the uterus is when there are more than 5 contractions occurring in a 10 minute period leading to a non-reassuring fetal heart rate. Frequent or prolonged uterine contractions can reduce oxygen delivery to the fetus. Certain drugs, such as Pitocin/Oxytoxin, if given too aggressively can cause hyperstimulation. Pitocin is a drug that increases the strength, duration, and rate of uterine contractions.
With decreased oxygen to the baby's brain, there is loss of variability and late decelerations. If late decelerations are seen, the pitocin should be decreased or stopped to improve the oxygen delivery to the baby. If the lack of oxygen delivery is allowed to continue, the baby's brain has less oxygen reserve and the risk of injury increases.
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