Several factors can influence baseline variability, including:
Fetal hypoxia: Reduced oxygen supply can diminish variability. Medications: Certain drugs, such as narcotics or magnesium sulfate, can decrease variability. Gestational age: Preterm fetuses may naturally exhibit lower variability. Fetal sleep cycles: Variability can be reduced during fetal sleep. Maternal conditions: Factors like maternal fever or hypotension can impact variability.