'Radar' can detect birth problems

The technique should pick up any problems during labour

Technology used to detect enemy targets on military radar is being used to help doctors spot problems during labour.

The non-invasive device checks a baby's heartbeat, and can indicate if it is in distress.

Existing methods of checking foetal heartbeats can involve attaching a sensor to the baby's head, which can be stressful for mother and baby.

Researchers from Imperial College say their technique could save babies' lives and prevent brain damage.

For it to have anything new to offer, this technique needs to provide extra information on the activity of the baby's heart Dr Margaret Ramsay, Queen's Medical Centre

In their latest study, detailed in New Scientist magazine, the scientists were able to detect foetal heartbeats using the device in 12 out of 16 women in labour.

The monitor works by placing 12 electrodes on the mother's abdomen, which can isolate the baby's heartbeat from their mother's or other electrical interference from equipment.

These electrocardiogram (ECG) readings of the electrical signal of the baby's heart are then sent to a computer.

ECG readings can reveal if the baby is not receiving enough oxygen or is suffering from an irregular heartbeat.

Saving lives

Doctors currently can use a technique called cardiotocography to (CTG) to monitor a baby's heartbeat during labour.

But this can involve putting a sensor on the baby's head, which can only be done when the cervix is dilated enough.

Gynaecologist Myles Taylor, who worked on the research, told BBC News Online: "The real challenge is to pick up problems during labour.

"This technique is very easy to use, and very cheap. We hope it will save babies' lives and prevent brain damage during labour."

But Dr Margaret Ramsay, a senior lecturer in foetal and maternal medicine at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, said doctors could already use a non-invasive ultrasound technique to monitor the baby's heartbeat.

"For it to have anything new to offer, this technique needs to provide extra information on the activity of the baby's heart.

"What we want to do is find out as much as possible about the baby's health before it is born."