How's the Baby Growing?

During your pregnancy there are many ways to check on the growing baby in your uterus. It is so exciting to feel those first kicks, and see the first glimpses of your little one that is soon to come. There is no greater assurance during your pregnancy than knowing your baby is growing as it should be. By conducting simple tests your doctor can examine your baby and check on its growth and development. Read on for a list of fun prenatal exams completed during your pregnancy to view the baby and its development.

The most common prenatal fetal test is an ultrasound. An ultrasound is a non-invasive way to see your baby and measure its growth. The ultrasound machine uses sound waves to create a clear picture of the baby, placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid. The ultrasound allows for real life viewing of the baby's movement and heart beat. Most ultrasounds are completed externally by placing the wand on the mother's growing stomach. Occasionally, internal ultrasounds are completed early in pregnancy by placing the ultrasound want inside the vagina to better view the uterus. This is generally done when there is no known last menstruation date. An internal ultrasound can predict a due date very accurately early on in pregnancy. This may also be used to confirm or un-confirm a pregnancy if blood and urine tests are indiscriminate.

A 4-D ultrasound works the same way as a standard ultrasound, but the waves are measured and a picture is formed in a way which you can sense depth. This allows for a very clear picture of the growing baby. These 4-D ultra sounds give you a sense of what your baby may look like and you can even see the baby moving, sucking it's thumb or waving at you.

A common test done during the last month of pregnancy is a Biophysical Profile. This is a standard ultrasound test in which the baby is tested in 4 categories. The ultrasound technician measures amniotic fluid amounts, muscle formation, breathing motions, and movement. The size and weight of the baby can be determined with very high accuracy during a biophysical profile as well. This test is commonly done to women who are overdue to be sure the baby is still thriving inside the uterus. A doctor may also order a biophysical profile if the mother is measuring very large or very small or if weight gain is a concern.

A non-stress test is a way to measure your baby's heartbeat and movements. Electrodes are connected to the mother's stomach for a period of 30-60 minutes. The baby's heartbeat is recorded as well as kick counts to ensure the baby is remaining active. These non-stress tests are completely invasive and only require you to lie on your back for the time of testing.

If there is concern over how the mother or the baby will handle the contractions of labor, a doctor may occasionally simulate labor. This is called a contraction stress test. The mother is given medication to start contractions. During the contractions the mother and baby are monitored to be sure the baby and the mother do not become stressed. This test is not done routinely and is only ordered if necessary.

The development of the baby while in utero is simply amazing. There is nothing greater than seeing a few glimpses of your baby months before birth and the memories will remain in your mind forever. The miracle of pregnancy and birth is simply amazing, and any way to understand the process is very welcomed! These tests all measure the health of the baby and monitor the development of the baby and help to ensure a healthy baby and mother at birth!