Why is a Non-stress Test (AFIBP)
performed?
Your health care provider may recommend that you have a non-stress test
during the latter part of your pregnancy. The non-stress test uses a fetal
monitor to listen to the heart rate of your baby and can also provide
some information about contractions. The non-stress test may be done for
a number of reasons, including: if you have high blood pressure or diabetes;
if your baby is moving less than usual; if your baby is overdue; if there
has been a problem during one of your earlier pregnancies; or to provide
reassurance to you and your health care provider that your baby is doing
well.
What can I expect during the test?
This test usually takes about 30 minutes depending on the activity and
sleep pattern of your baby and will not hurt you or your baby. Your health
care provider will look for increases in your baby's heart rate as your
baby moves around inside you. These increases help to assure your health
care provider of your baby's well-being. A fetal monitor will be used
to record this information. The amniotic fluid index, commonly called
an AFI, only takes a few minutes, and is performed to determine the amount
of fluid that surrounds your baby.
Ultrasound is used to look at and measure these pockets of fluid. The
amniotic fluid index may be done for a number of different reasons, including:
going past your due date; rupturing of your membranes or bag of waters
too early in your pregnancy; and providing reassurance to you and your
health care provider that your baby is doing well.
The biophysical profile is a test that combines both fetal monitoring
and ultrasound information. It may take an hour to complete and consists
of the following five different parts: the non-stress test; the amniotic
fluid index; the smaller movements made by your baby's arms and legs;
the larger movements made by the baby; and the ability of your baby to
move its chest muscles, called fetal breathing. This test would be done
for a variety of reasons, including: testing without increasing your baby's
heart rate; rupturing of your membranes or bag of waters prematurely;
and reassuring you and your health care provider of your baby's well-being.
This
information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about
this information or your medical condition.