The Non-Stress Test (NST) is a critical diagnostic tool used in obstetrics to assess fetal well-being and monitor the health of the unborn baby. It evaluates the fetal heart rate in response to movements and other stimuli, providing valuable information about the baby’s condition, especially in high-risk pregnancies or when there are concerns about fetal health. As gynecologists, our role in conducting and interpreting NSTs involves ensuring accurate assessment, understanding its implications, and integrating the results into comprehensive prenatal care.
Assess Fetal Heart Rate: The NST measures the fetal heart rate and its response to fetal movements. A healthy fetal heart rate typically shows accelerations with movement, indicating adequate oxygenation and well-being. Evaluate Fetal Well-Being: The test helps determine if the fetus is getting enough oxygen and if there are any signs of distress or compromised health.
Patient Positioning: The patient is typically positioned in a comfortable reclining position, either sitting or lying on their side, to ensure optimal fetal monitoring. Equipment Setup: Two transducers are placed on the patient’s abdomen: Fetal Heart Rate Transducer: Monitors the fetal heart rate. Uterine Contraction Transducer (if applicable): Measures uterine contractions if needed for further evaluation.