A stress test, or contraction stress test, is performed when you are at least 34 weeks pregnant. This test is done to make sure your baby will remain healthy during a normal labor contraction, which naturally reduces the level of oxygen the baby receives. During contractions, blood and oxygen to the baby drops for a short period of time, although this is not an issue for most babies. Some babies, however, do experience a slower heart rate during a contraction. During the stress test, you’ll be administered oxytocin to start contractions.
When Do I Need a Stress Test During Pregnancy?
A stress test during pregnancy is usualyl recommended if you’ve had a non responsive non-stress test or an abnormal biophysical profile. The biophysical profile is the use of an ultrasound during a non-stress test and looks at the physical characteristics of your child. The results of this stress test will let you know your baby’s general health for 7 days, so it may need to be repeated. The results will either be negative or positive. Normal test results are negative, which means your baby’s heart rate does not slow and stay low after a contraction. An abnormal or positive test, however, means your baby could have trouble during labor.
When Do I Need a Stress Test During Pregnancy?
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