Common Tests Used to Determine How Baby is Doing

It is very important to make sure your baby is doing all right during your final stages of pregnancy. If you are concerned during the last few weeks of your pregnancy, or if your baby is over due, there are tests out there that can help verify the status of your baby's health. This article will discuss some of the most common tests used to determine how your unborn is doing in the womb.

The Non-Stress Test (NST)

Placing a fetal monitor on the pregnant mother to examine the fetal heart movement is how this test is performed. If there isn't any movement or there is not a sign of a heartbeat, the cause may be fetal distress syndrome. It is also important that the person interpreting the test results know what they are doing to avoid any serious mishaps.

The Stress Test, or Oxytocin Challenge Test (OCT)

This test is used to evaluate the reactivity of the fetal heartbeat along with uterine contractions. It is very important to make sure that the baby's heart will be able to withstand contractions, so this method simulates the act of labor to check if the baby is able to make it through the real thing. The OCT can be very time consuming, usually up to 3 hours. If the contractions are not happening in a frequent manner, the mother may receive an IV of Oxytocin or increase stimulation to her nipples to get the contractions up and running. If the baby is not able to withstand this rough test, it is a possibility the baby will be removed from the womb before actual labor occurs.

At-Home Fetal Movement Assessment

A mother can monitor her baby's movements at home to check for any problems with the fetus. This method is not foolproof, however, a mother's instinct can be strong when it comes to carrying a baby. If the mother is not able to fully comprehend the condition or movement of her fetus, she should go to see her doctor to determine if there is anything wrong.

Fetal Acoustical Stimulation (FAS), or Vibroascoustic Stimulation

FAS is a non-stress test that monitors the reaction the fetus has to sounds and or vibrations. This test has been found to be more accurate than other non-stress tests.

A Biophysical Profile (BPP)

This test is taken via ultrasound and is able to determine the movements of the fetus, fetal breathing, and the quantity of amniotic fluid that is present. If the test shows signs of normal movement, breathing, and fluid present, then the baby is probably doing just fine. If the biophysical profile is taken with an assessment of the fetal heart rate, the doctor should have a clear image of baby's condition.

The "Modified" Biophysical Profile

The modified biophysical profile is the results of both a biophysical profile and a non-stress test together to determine the overall health of the baby. This assessment is usually very precise in determining the fetus' overall well being.

Other TestsSerial

Ultrasound: This test evaluates the fetus' growth.

Amniotic Fluid Volume Check: This is a test to check how much amniotic fluid is present. Any decreased volumes can determine if there is a placental insufficiency.

Amniotic Fluid Sampling: Test of the amniotic fluid.

Doppler Velocimetry: This test measures the blood flow velocity through the umbilical cord.

Fetal Admissions Test: This is a combination of fetal acoustical stimulation with the amniotic fluid volume tests.

Fetal Electrocardiography: This test uses an electrode attached to the scalp to evaluate the fetus' heart.

Fetal Scalp Evaluation: This test is used to assess the reaction to pressure on or the pinching of the scalp.

Fetal Scalp Blood Sampling

I hope that God willing this article will be of some benefit to you.