What is Non stress Test

Non stress Test is a procedure that is done during pregnancy in order to check the baby’s heartbeat. The procedure can help show if the baby (fetus) is healthy. It is commonly done when:

• The baby is past his or her due date.
• The pregnancy is high risk.
• The baby is moving less than normal.
• The mother has lost a pregnancy in the past.
• The health care provider suspects a problem with the baby’s growth.
• There is too much or too little amniotic fluid.

The procedure is often done in the third trimester of pregnancy to find out if an early delivery is needed and whether such a delivery is safe.

During a nonstress test, the baby’s heartbeat is monitored when the baby is resting and when the baby is moving. If the baby is healthy, the heart rate will increase when he or she moves or kicks and will return to normal when he or she rests.

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.
• Any medical conditions you have.
• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.

What are the risks?

There are no risks to you or your baby from a nonstress test. This procedure should not be painful or uncomfortable.

What happens before the procedure?

• Eat a meal right before the test or as directed by your health care provider. Food may help encourage the baby to move.
• Use the restroom right before the test.

What happens during the procedure?

• Two monitors will be placed on your abdomen. One will record the baby’s heart rate and the other will record the contractions of your uterus.
• You may be asked to lie down on your side or to sit upright.
• You may be given a button to press when you feel your baby move.
• Your health care provider will listen to your baby’s heartbeat and recorded it. He or she may also watch your baby’s heartbeat on a screen.
• If the baby seems to be sleeping, you may be asked to drink some juice or soda, eat a snack, or change positions.

The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.

What happens after the procedure?

• Your health care provider will discuss the test results with you and make recommendations for the future. Depending on the results, your health care provider may order additional tests or another course of action.
• If your health care provider gave you any diet or activity instructions, make sure to follow them.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Summary

• A nonstress test is a procedure that is done during pregnancy in order to check the baby’s heartbeat. The procedure can help show if the baby is healthy.
• The procedure is often done in the third trimester of pregnancy to find out if an early delivery is needed and whether such a delivery is safe.
• During a nonstress test, the baby’s heartbeat is monitored when the baby is resting and when the baby is moving. If the baby is healthy, the heart rate will increase when he or she moves or kicks and will return to normal when he or she rests.
• Your health care provider will discuss the test results with you and make recommendations for the future.