Expecting a little one? You might hear about the fetal non-stress test (NST) during your prenatal appointments. It's a simple, painless procedure used to monitor your baby's heart rate and movements, usually performed in the third trimester.
The NST helps assess your baby's well-being by observing how their heart rate responds to activity. Sensors are placed on your abdomen to track the baby's heartbeat and your uterine contractions (if any). You'll typically be asked to press a button each time you feel your baby move.
A "reactive" NST indicates a healthy response – meaning the baby's heart rate increases appropriately with movement. A "non-reactive" result doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem, but further testing might be needed to get a clearer picture. Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions you have about your NST results. It's all about ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a happy baby!
