What is a nonstress test?
This simple, painless procedure is done during pregnancy to evaluate your baby's condition. During the test, your healthcare practitioner or a technician monitors your baby's heartbeat, first while the baby is resting and then while he's moving. Just as your heart beats faster when you're active, your baby's heart rate should go up while he's moving or kicking.
The test is typically done if you've gone past your due date, or in the month or two leading up to your due date if you're having a high-risk pregnancy. Here are some reasons you might have a nonstress test:
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You have diabetes that's treated with medication, high blood pressure, or some other medical condition that could affect your pregnancy. |
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You have gestational hypertension. |
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Your baby appears to be small or not growing properly. |
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Your baby is less active than normal. |
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You have too much or too little amniotic fluid. |
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