Obstetrics - Tests of fetal well-being

 

Biophysical profiles

In some cases, a combination of the non-stress test and an ultrasound exam may be done. This test is called a biophysical profile. It checks fetal well-being in these five areas:

 

1. Variation of fetal heart rate (the non-stress test)
2. Breathing movements (movements of the baby's chest)
3. Body movements (any significant movements of the baby)
4. Muscle tone (quick, jerky movements of hands or feet)
5. Amount of amniotic fluid (too little or too much may signal a problem)
   

 

In addition to the non-stress test results, the doctor uses ultrasound to measure the amniotic fluid and to see how often the fetus breathes, moves, and flexes muscles during a 30-minute period. Each of the five areas is given a score of 0 or 2 points, for a possible total of 10 points. A score of 8 or 10 is normal.

 

In measuring the amount of amniotic fluid, your doctor may use the term "amniotic fluid index" or AFI. For this test, ultrasound is used to measure the depth of the amniotic fluid in four different areas of your uterus. The sum of these measurements is the AFI. A normal AFI is 5–20 centimeters. Sometimes a modified biophysical profile, which includes a non-stress test and amniotic fluid assessment, is performed.

 

A biophysical profile does not cause any harm to the fetus. If the results are normal (a score of 8 or 10), it is most often repeated weekly. In some cases, it will be repeated more often. If the results are abnormal, this may mean that additional tests are needed or, in some cases, that the baby needs to be delivered. It can be repeated, if needed, at various times to check the well-being of the fetus. The score will help decide whether you need special care or whether your baby should be delivered sooner than planned.

 

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