Ask A Doctor: What Happens If Baby Fails Nst?

Non Stress Test Pregnancy image

Expert opinion from Matheus R Cerqueira

Specialist in Family and Community Medicine · 7 years of experience · Brazil

Typically, a nonstress test is recommended when it's believed that the baby is at an increased risk of death. A nonstress test may be done after 26 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. If the baby's heartbeat does not meet the test criteria, the results are considered non-reactive and could be because the baby was inactive or sleeping during the test. In this case, it is necessary to carry out new tests, such as the Biophysical Profile or the Contraction Stress Test.

Expert opinion from Howard E. Lewine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

A nonstress test checks how your unborn baby’s heartrate changes with movement. A “reactive” or “reassuring” result means the baby’s heart rate went up two or more times during the test. A “nonreactive” result simply means that the heart rate didn’t increase with movement or the baby wasn’t very active. That doesn’t always mean there is a problem but your provider will most likely recommend additional tests or treatment, more monitoring, or induce labor.

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Expert opinion from Gustavo Campos

Doctor of Medicine · 9 years of experience · Brazil

Failure in the non-stress test indicates a nonreactive result. This might happen if the baby is asleep or inactive. There may be a need to repeat the test or undergo another prenatal test.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.