Final answer:
Electronic fetal monitoring is the method for evaluating fetal status during the antepartum period by observing the response of the fetal heart rate to uterine contractions. A positive response indicates that the baby is tolerating the stress of contractions well, while a negative response may indicate fetal distress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The method for evaluating fetal status during the antepartum period by observing the response of the fetal heart rate to the stress of uterine contractions is called electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). This technique uses a monitor to measure and record the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. A positive response in fetal heart rate to a uterine contraction means that the heart rate accelerates, indicating that the baby is tolerating the stress of contractions well. A negative response means that the heart rate decelerates or doesn't change significantly, which may indicate fetal distress.