Foetal monitoring reimagined - WA innovation powered by FHRI backing

A new device developed in Western Australia is revolutionising how babies are monitored during labour. By detecting oxygen deprivation in real time, it enables faster clinical intervention and reduces risks such as birth asphyxia and cerebral palsy.

Trialled at King Edward Memorial Hospital, the device uses a scalp sensor to measure lactate levels in the baby’s blood and transmits data wirelessly, allowing mothers to move freely during labour. It also helps reduce unnecessary emergency caesarean sections, improving recovery and early bonding.

This breakthrough was made possible by early-stage support from the Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund, which enabled researchers at The University of Western Australia (UWA) to develop the concept into a commercial product.

WA medtech company VitalTrace, in partnership with UWA and The University of Sydney, is leading its rollout.

With successful trials at 4 national sites, the device is on track for broader clinical use – demonstrating how FHRI funding can accelerate research translation and deliver life-changing healthcare innovations.