A fetal non stress test (NST) during pregnancy is actually a non-invasive, simple and safe procedure that’s performed past your 28th week. The procedure gets the name “non-stress” because it does not place stress on the fetus. Because the test in non-invasive, there are no side effects or risks for mother or child.
The Procedure
When you receive a non stress test during pregnancy, two belts will be attached around your abdomen: one measures the baby’s heart rate while the other measures contractions. Heart rate, movement and the change in heart rate during movement is recorded for 20 to 30 minutes. If the baby doesn’t move during the test it could indicate the baby is simply asleep, or a problem may be the cause. At this point the nurse may use a buzzer device to try to wake the baby up to measure heart rate changes during movement.
Purpose of the NST Procedure
A non-stress test may be done if you feel your baby isn’t moving as frequently as they normally do, if you are past your due date, if the doctor suspects the placenta is not functioning properly or if you have a high risk pregnancy. The test may show if there is fetal distress, which may be caused by insufficient oxygen from umbilical cord or placental problems.
What the NST Checks For
The test is designed to measure the baby’s heart rate in response to its movements. A healthy baby will demonstrate an increased heart rate during its own movements, which decrease when it rests. Proper supplies of oxygen are needed for fetal activity and heart rate to fall within a normal range, so a fetus may not respond properly if they aren’t getting adequate oxygen. A reactive result means the blood flow and oxygen is sufficient, while a nonreactive result from the NST means more tests are required to ameks ure the baby is suffering from poor oxygenation or if there is another cause.
A Non Stress Test During Pregnancy: What is it?
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