m-CTG: A Low-Cost Mobile-Phone Cardiotocograph Device for Antenatal and Intrapartum Monitoring to Prevent Perinatal Mortality in Low-Resource Settings

We propose developing a mobile phone based Cardiotocography (CTG) (m-CTG) with inbuilt algorithm and alerts that can be used to identify the at-risk fetuses and monitor high-risk pregnant women for early referral and appropriate action. The proposed cheaper m-CTG device (cost ~$100-120) shall have the functions of standard CTG devices including FHR, fetal movements and uterine contraction. The in-built algorithm shall allow categorization to identify the abnormal ones. This device shall be mobile/ portable and easy to handle. Real-time data transmission by the mobile device shall allow referral and action for high risk cases. Other m-Health applications can be easily integrated for comprehensive and single window continuum service delivery. This shall enforce standardize case management and protocol adherence.