Health & Pregnancy
Nonstress Test
A nonstress test shows how the fetal heart rate changes with fetal movements.
During a nonstress test, an external monitor is placed around the mother's belly to record the fetal heart rate. Each time the fetus moves, the movement is noted on the recording chart. Any changes in heart rate during movements are also noted.
Maintaining a regular exercise routine throughout your pregnancy can help you stay healthy and feel your best. Regular exercise during pregnancy can improve your posture and decrease some common discomforts such as backaches and fatigue. There is evidence that physical activity may prevent gestational diabetes (diabetes that develops during pregnancy), relieve stress, and build more stamina needed for labor and delivery. If you were physically active before your pregnancy, you should be able to...
Read the Exercise During Pregnancy article > >
If the fetus is asleep, the mother may be asked to press on her belly or make a loud noise to awake the fetus.
Because a fetus is more active if the mother has a high blood glucose level, the mother will be asked to eat before having this test.
If the fetus does not move during this test, more testing will be needed.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Pregnancy Week-By-Week Newsletter
Delivered right to your inbox, get pictures and facts on
what to expect each week of your pregnancy.
Healthy Living Centers
Top 12 Topics-
1.
-
2.
-
3.
-
4.
-
5.
-
6.
-
7.
-
8.
-
9.
-
10.
-
11.
-
12.
Today in Pregnancy
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.