Evaluation of fetal arrhythmias

Fetal arrhythmias occur in approximately 1 to 3 percent of all pregnancies. Successful management depends on early identification and evaluation. Arrhythmias are classified as irregular, bradycardiac or tachycardiac. With proper monitoring, fetuses with irregular arrhythmias can usually be delivered by family physicians. For fetuses with bradyarrhythmias or tachyarrhythmias, referral to a high-risk specialists for ongoing fetal surveillance and delivery is necessary.