Obstetrics - Tests of fetal well-being

 

Contraction stress test

Electronic fetal monitoring performed while contractions are induced artificially often yields a more precise impression of fetal well being than a non-stress test alone. Contractions are induced by use of intravenous pitocin. Much lower doses of pitocin are used than would be required to induce labor, but the effect is similar. Contraction stress tests are only performed in the hospital.