Question

Diagnostic Test: The why it is done, the preparation, how it’s done, what the results can mean for:

contraction stress test, Biophysical profile,and fetal kick count

Answer 1

contraction stress test:

A contraction stress test (CST) is performed near the end of pregnancy (34 weeks' gestation) to determine how well the fetus will cope with thecontractions of childbirth. The aim is to inducecontractions and monitor the fetus to check for heart rate abnormalities using a cardiotocograph.

CST is performed weekly, as the fetus is assumed to be healthy after a negative test and should remain so for another week.This test is done in hospital or clinic setting.External fetal monitors are put in place and then either nipple stimulation or IV pitocin(oxytocin) is used to stimulate uterine contractions.

During uterine contractions, fetal oxygenation is worsened. Late decelerations in fetal heart rate occurring during uterine contractions are associated with increased fetal death rate, growth retardation and neonatal depression.This test assesses fetal heart rate in response to uterine contractions via electronic fetal monitoring. Uterine activity is monitored by tocodynamometer.

Biophysical profile:

A fetal biophysical profile is a prenatal test used to check on a baby's well-being. The test combines fetal heart rate monitoring (nonstress test) and fetal ultrasound to evaluate a baby's heart rate, breathing, movements, muscle tone and amniotic fluid level.

Part of the biophysical profile is an ultrasound. This tracks your baby's movement and tests the amount of amniotic fluid. You'll lie on your back and a technician will hold the ultrasound wand against your belly. Another part of the BPP is a nonstress test that monitors your baby's heartbeat for 20 minutes

fetal kick count :

Fetal movement counting, often calledkick counting, is a way a mother can help monitor the movements of her unborn baby by counting the number of kicks in a certain time period. By 20 weeks gestation, most women are able to feel their baby's movements

The best time for counting is often in the evening, when babies tend to be more active. You may be able to feel the movements better if you lie down. To do a kick count, count the baby’s movements for 2 hours. If you don’t feel 6 movements (such as kicks, flutters, or rolling movements) in 2 hours, you should contact your health care provider as soon as possible. The health status of both you and the baby will be evaluated. Baby’s movement patterns vary, but tend to be consistent for any one baby, in any one pregnancy. If you’re counting movements, try to do it at the same time each day.