Simple fetal heartbeat monitoring still best method to reduce unnecessary cesarean sections: Study ANI | Updated: Apr 06, 2021 13:13 IST Coventry [UK], April 6 (ANI): The findings of a new study led by researchers at the University of Warwick suggested that simple fetal heartbeat monitoring is still the best method for determining whether a baby is in distress during delivery and whether cesarean delivery is needed. The findings of the study were published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). Cesarean delivery is the most common surgical procedure worldwide, performed to expedite birth and avoid neonatal complications. Listening to the fetal heart rate using a stethoscope -- intermittent auscultation -- has been used for years to assess the fetal state and whether the baby is experiencing distress that might require a cesarean delivery. Other monitoring techniques have become common in recent years, including echocardiograms and blood tests.