Can AI Augmented Fetal Monitoring Prevent Intrapartum Stillbirth and
Neonatal Death in a Low-Income Setting?
Abstract
Intrapartum stillbirths and early neonatal deaths remain stubbornly high
in low income countries. Fetal monitoring in labour can reduce these
poor outcomes, but limited progress is being achieved in these settings.
Intermittent auscultation and continuous electronic fetal monitoring
(CEFM) can both be employed to monitor a fetus during labour. There are
challenges and limitations with both modalities. We used AI augmented
fetal monitoring in a hospital in Malawi and demonstrated substantial
reductions in both intrapartum stillbirths and early neonatal deaths
with a small increase in the cesarean delivery rate. AI-CEFM should be
studied further to achieve better perinatal outcomes.