Non stress Test.

My doctor wants me to have a non stress test. What is that?
A nonstress test is a procedure done in the doctor's office, in the labor room or in the delivery room. While you are lying down, a fetal monitor is attached to your abdomen. Every time you feel the baby move, you push a button to make a mark on the monitor paper. At the same time, the fetal monitor records the baby's heartbeat on the same paper.

What will a non stress test show?
The information gained from a non stress test gives reassurance that your baby is doing OK.

If my nonstress test isn't OK, what happens next?
Additional tests will be done, including a biophysical profile or a contraction stress test.

Contraction Stress Test
What is a contraction stress test?
A contraction stress test (CST), also called a stress test, is another test used to evaluate the well-being of the baby.

How is a contraction stress test done?
A monitor is placed on the woman's abdomen to record the fetal heart rate. Sometimes nipple stimulation is used to make the woman's uterus contract, or an I.V. is started to give oxytocin in small amounts to make the uterus contract. Results indicate how well a baby will tolerate contractions and labor.

What can a contraction stress test indicate?
If the baby doesn't respond well to the contractions, it can be a sign of fetal distress.

When is a contraction stress test done?
If a woman has had problem pregnancies in the past or experiences medical problems during this pregnancy, her doctor may have her tested the last few weeks of pregnancy. This is done when the nonstress test is not reassuring.