Cardiotocography
![](/Images/godic/202502/16/Kardiotokograf4447.jpeg")
![Schematic explanation of cardiotocography: heart rate (A) is calculated from fetal heart motion determined by ultrasound, and uterine contractions are measured by a tocodynamometer (B). These numbers are represented on a time scale with the help of a running piece of paper, producing a graphical representation.](/Images/godic/202502/16/Cardiotocography_diagram4447.jpg")
![A typical CTG output for a woman not in labour. A: Fetal heartbeat; B: Indicator showing movements felt by mother (caused by pressing a button); C: Fetal movement; D: Uterine contractions](/Images/godic/202502/16/CTG_Output4447.jpg")
In medicine (obstetrics), cardiotocography (CTG) is a technical means of recording the fetal heartbeat and the uterine contractions during pregnancy. The machine used to perform the monitoring is called a cardiotocograph, more commonly known as an electronic fetal monitor (EFM).