Non-stress testing
in Boca Raton & Boynton, FL

A fetal non-stress test (NST) is a prenatal test that is performed to evaluate the well-being of a fetus during pregnancy. It is commonly used in high-risk pregnancies, where there is concern about the fetus’ oxygen supply or other issues. During this non-stress test, electronic sensors are placed on the mother’s abdomen to measure the fetal heart rate (FHR) and contractions of the uterus. The test assesses the fetal response to its own movements and/or contractions of the uterus as a sign of the fetus’s well-being.

The fetal non-stress test is performed in a clinical setting and typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. The mother is usually seated or reclined during the test, and the sensors are placed on the abdomen with a gel to ensure good contact. The test is considered non-invasive and painless, and there are no known risks to the mother or fetus.

Fetal Non-Stress Test Results

The fetal heart rate and contraction patterns are displayed on a monitor, which allows the doctor to evaluate the fetus’s response to movement and assess if the fetus is getting enough oxygen. Further testing, such as an ultrasound or amniotic fluid analysis, may be required if an abnormal pattern is detected. If everything appears normal, the non-stress test will likely be repeated in a few days or weeks, depending on the results and the particular circumstances of the pregnancy.

Making an Appointment