The biophysical profile combines an ultrasound evaluation with a
nonstress test (NST) and is intended to determine fetal health
during the third trimester. This test is performed if there is a
question about fetal health and well being resulting from either
an examination, maternal/fetal symptoms, or if the pregnancy is
considered high risk. How is a BPP Performed? There are two
parts to the BPP, a Non-stress Test (NST) and an ultrasound
evaluation. The NST involves attaching one belt to the mother’s
abdomen to measure fetal heart rate, and another belt to measure
contractions. Movement, heart rate and “reactivity” of heart
rate to movement are measured for 20-30 minutes. If the baby
does not move for a time during the test, it does not mean there
is a problem; the baby may be asleep. A nurse may use a small
“buzzer” to wake the baby for the remainder of the test. The
ultrasound portion of the test is like any other obstetrical
ultrasound performed during pregnancy and is performed by a
qualified ultrasound t