What Is a Non-Stress Test?
Our non-stress test (NST) is a non-invasive prenatal test. It monitors a baby’s heart rate and overall health during the later stages of pregnancy. Midwifery professionals perform the test by placing two sensors on the mother’s abdomen. One sensor tracks the baby’s heartbeat, while the other measures any uterine contractions. Together, these sensors record the data over a period of time, typically 20 to 40 minutes. This allows the care team to observe patterns in the baby’s heart rate and how it responds to movement.
Why This Test Matters
The test provides real-time information about the baby’s well-being. As a result, it serves as an essential tool for confirming that the baby is receiving adequate oxygen. It also shows whether their heart rate responds appropriately to movement. A reactive result, meaning the heart rate rises as expected during movement, is generally a reassuring sign. In particular, this test benefits high-risk pregnancies, including those involving conditions such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. Because of this, it supports early detection of potential issues and timely interventions, giving both parents and care providers greater confidence throughout the pregnancy.
