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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.

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.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised June 21, 2010

Last Revised: June 21, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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