What is an In-office Non-stress Test (NST)?
An in-office non-stress test (NST) is a prenatal test that is used to monitor the health of the fetus during pregnancy. It is a non-invasive test that is performed in our office by a doctor or nurse.
How is an in-office NST performed?
The mother will be reclined in a recliner or on an examination table. The doctor or nurse will then attach two belts to her abdomen. One belt will have a transducer attached to it, which will monitor the fetal heart rate. The other belt will have a sensor attached to it, which will monitor contractions.
The doctor or nurse will then observe the fetal heart rate and contractions for at least 20 minutes. During this time, the mother may be asked to drink juice or eat a snack to get the baby moving.
What does an in-office NST measure?
An in-office NST measures the fetal heart rate and contractions. The doctor or nurse will look for accelerations in the fetal heart rate. Accelerations are increases in the fetal heart rate that occur when the baby moves. Accelerations are a good sign that the baby is getting enough oxygen.
Who should get an in-office NST?
In-office NSTs are typically recommended for women who have high-risk pregnancies. High-risk pregnancies include pregnancies in which the mother has a medical condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or in which the baby is at risk for complications, such as growth restriction or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
When should an in-office NST be performed?
In-office NSTs are typically performed starting in the third trimester of pregnancy, around 28 to 32 weeks of gestation. The frequency of NSTs will vary depending on the mother's individual risk factors.
What are the benefits of an in-office NST?
In-office NSTs are a safe and effective way to monitor the health of the fetus during pregnancy. They can help to identify fetuses that are at risk for complications, such as hypoxia or intrauterine distress. Early identification of these complications can lead to better outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
If you have any questions or concerns about in-office NSTs, please talk to your doctor.