What is a Non-Stress Test?

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What is a Non-Stress Test?

When you find yourself quickly approaching your due date (or waving bye-bye to it), you may hear your doctor recommend looking into a non-stress test for your baby. What is a non-stress test, how is it performed, and what kinds of answers could it give about your pregnancy?

What is a Non-Stress Test in Late Pregnancy?

A non-stress test is a simple procedure, performed any time between 28-42 weeks, that checks to see if your baby is moving properly and has an adequate heart rate. Because of various risks to "going overdue", many moms are called in to check on their babies with a non-stress test. It does not hurt the baby - in fact, it gets its name by virtue of not causing any distress to your baby.

How is a Non-Stress Test Performed?

During a non-stress test, you will lie down and have two belts placed over your belly: one to measure any contractions, and one to measure the baby's heart rate. It may last approximately half an hour. One of the things your doctor will look for is an increased heart rate when your baby is active, and a decrease when they are sitting still. Normal ranges of these readings would indicate a healthy baby. Some babies are asleep for this test which may be alarming at first, but touch and sound can be used to stimulate the baby to wake up and move around for the monitors.

Why Do You Need a Non-Stress Test?

If you are having a normally progressing pregnancy with no complications, you probably don't need one. However, if you go past your due date, or have any medical issues with your pregnancy, or if you have noticed that your baby isn't moving around as much lately, a non-stress test would be a good idea just to check and make sure that everything is okay. This simple test could help your doctor find out early on if there are any problems with the placenta or umbilical cord, or another type of issue.

Most non-stress tests are quick, easy, and show no issues with your baby. If there is a possible complication, this is a great time for your doctor to discuss any further testing, and a plan of action to be sure that both you and your baby have a safe, healthy, and satisfying delivery!

If you go in for a non-stress test, be sure to ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable with the process and what happens next.