This test helps your doctor evaluate the condition of your baby by measuring your baby's heart rate in response to it's own movements. Normally, the heart beats faster when the baby moves. This is usually done during the third trimester of pregnancy.
For a NST, you either lie on an exam table or sit back in a chair, while a belt with ultrasound transducers attached to it is placed around your abdomen. Your baby's heart rate is recorded continuously for about 20 minutes. If your baby appears to be sleeping, the test may take longer.
The results are considered normal if the test is reactive- if the baby's heart rate accelerated normally in response to it's own movements. Follow-up tests are needed when a non-reactive NST is obtained.
