Which outcome is associated with fetal assessment that reflects placental health?

Fetal heart rate variability is a critical outcome associated with fetal assessment that indicates the health of the placenta. It reflects the autonomic regulation of the fetal heart rate and is influenced by the well-being of the fetus, which is closely connected to placental function. A healthy placenta ensures adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, which supports normal heart rate patterns. Increased variability suggests that the fetal nervous system is functioning well and responding appropriately to various stimuli, indicating that the fetus is likely in a healthy environment provided by the placenta.

In contrast, factors such as maternal comfort level and weight gain do not directly assess placental function or health, as they relate more to maternal health and overall pregnancy experience. While fetal size prediction can provide information about the growth of the fetus, it does not specifically reflect placental health in the same direct way that fetal heart rate variability does. Focusing on fetal heart rate variability offers a more specific indication of how well the placenta is supporting fetal development.