Biophysical profile in pregnancy
Who gets the test?
Your doctor may recommend a
biophysical profile test if you are overdue or have a higher risk of problems
during pregnancy. You may be at higher risk due to a medical condition such as
diabetes or preeclampsia. Or you may need a biophysical profile after a fall or
other accident to make sure your child is healthy.
What does the test do
The Biophysical Profile is a
combination of tests that check your child's health. It measures your child's
body movements and muscle tone. It also measures how quickly your baby's heart
rate increases while moving and the amount of amniotic fluid protecting your
baby in the womb.
How the test works
The Biophysical Profile is
safe and non-invasive. This takes about 30 minutes.
Ultrasound is part of the
biophysical profile. It tracks your baby's movements and checks the amount of
amniotic fluid. You will lie on your back and the technician will press the
ultrasound probe against your abdomen. The other part of the biophysical
profile is a non-stress test that tracks your child's heart rate for 20
minutes. The doctor will place an elastic band with two sensors around your
abdomen to pick up your baby's heartbeat. Some clinicians start with the
ultrasound portion of the biophysical profile and may then add this non-stress
test if the clinician needs more information after that.
What you need to know about test results
The results of each part of
the test are added together to form a total score. A score of 8 to 10 means
your baby seems healthy. A score below eight usually means you need to take the
test again. A very low score may indicate that your child is in distress. Your
doctor may recommend early delivery.
How often is a test done during pregnancy?
If your doctor decides that you need it, you will probably receive a biophysical profile in the last trimester. Some women get them earlier. Your doctor may suggest follow-up biophysical profiles for the remainder of your pregnancy.