Fetal Non-Stress Test

A nonstress test is a test that checks your baby’s heartbeat patterns. It can show heart rate changes when the baby moves. It also shows changes when you have contractions, if you are having them. A fetal heart rate that speeds up when the baby moves means the baby is getting enough oxygen. A nonstress test is often done when there is any question about how the baby is doing during later pregnancy. Some patients with high-risk pregnancies are tested every week or twice a week in the third trimester.