What is Modified Biophysical Profile

Modified biophysical profile is a non-invasive test that may be done during pregnancy to make sure that your developing baby (fetus) and your placenta are healthy.

Your health care provider may recommend a modified biophysical profile if other tests show that your baby may be at high risk for certain problems. A modified biophysical profile is usually done during the last 3 months of pregnancy (third trimester).

This procedure combines two tests that are used to check the health of your baby and the condition of the placenta. In one test, you will have a device strapped to your belly to measure your baby’s heart rate. The other test involves measuring the amount of fluid (amniotic fluid) inside your uterus. The measurement of amniotic fluid is also called an amniotic fluid index. It is done using sound waves and a computer (ultrasound).

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.
• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.
• How often you feel your baby move.
• Any concerns you have about your pregnancy.
• Any symptoms such as abdominal pain or contractions, nausea or vomiting, vaginal bleeding, leaking of amniotic fluid, decreased fetal movements, fever or infection, increased swelling, headaches, or visual disturbances.
• Any medical conditions you have.

What are the risks?

There are no risks to you or your baby from a modified biophysical profile.

What happens before the procedure?

Ask your health care provider how to prepare for this test.

• You may be asked to drink fluids so that you have a full bladder for your ultrasound.
• You may also need to eat before you arrive for the test. That makes your baby more active.

What happens during the procedure?

• You will lie on your back on an exam table.
• A belt will be placed around your belly. The belt has a sensor to measure your baby’s heart rate.
• During the ultrasound, a health care provider or technician will gently roll a handheld device (transducer) over your belly. This device sends signals to a computer that measures the amniotic fluid in four areas of your uterus.

The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.

What happens after the procedure?

• Your health care provider will discuss your results with you.
• If the results of your test show a problem, you may need to have additional tests. These additional tests may include a full biophysical profile or a contraction stress test. These tests are done to make sure that your baby is doing well and is getting enough food and oxygen from your placenta.
• The results of these tests will be used to decide on the safest type of delivery for you and whether your baby should be delivered earlier than planned.
• Unless you need to stay for additional testing, you can go home right after the procedure and resume your usual activities.

Summary

• A modified biophysical profile is a non-invasive test that may be done during pregnancy to make sure that your fetus and your placenta are healthy.
• A modified biophysical profile combines two tests: A test to measure your baby’s heart rate and an ultrasound test to measure the amount of fluid (amniotic fluid) inside your uterus.
• Tell your health care provider about any concerns you have about your pregnancy or any pregnancy-related symptoms.
• If the results of your test show a problem, you may need to have additional tests.