What does an increase in fetal heart rate during fetal movement indicate?

An increase in fetal heart rate during fetal movement is considered a sign of fetal well-being. This elevation indicates that the fetus is responding positively to stimuli, which aligns with normal physiological responses. When the fetus moves, it often elicits a corresponding increase in heart rate, reflecting an active and healthy condition. This response is expected during periods of activity and provides reassurance about the fetus's overall health.

In contrast, signs of maternal stress or fetal distress would typically result in abnormal changes in the fetal heart rate, such as a decrease in rate or severe variability. A normal heart pattern generally refers to a stable baseline without significant variances, rather than an increase during movement. Thus, understanding the timing and context of fetal heart rate changes is crucial for interpreting fetal well-being accurately.