Why should I take the test?💡

A biophysical profile (BPP) is a short and simple assessment of fetal well-being that combines with a nonstress test when your midwife suspects that a baby is under stress. If you receive a nonreactive result in a nonstress test, you will be recommended to take the BPP test to have a more accurate picture of your baby’s condition. When all the measurements come back normal, your baby is most likely doing fine in your belly.

How is the test done?💉

A BPP test is accompanied with an ultrasound that uses high-frequency sound waves to create the image of the fetus. The test will look into five aspects:

The nonstress test: Your baby’s heartbeat per minute is recorded.

Fetal breathing movements: How your baby’s chest moves as the baby practices continuous, rhythmic breathing in the amniotic fluid.

Fetal movement: The baby’s movements are observed for 30 minutes. If the baby is napping, it might take longer.

Fetal muscle tone: The baby’s ability to flex and extend arm or leg, rotate the trunk of the body is measured by quick and jerky movements.

Volume of amniotic fluid: The amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby is measured through amniotic fluid pockets. 

TMI from Baby Billy👩‍⚕️:

Criteria of BPP

BPP test results reflect different markers to assess your baby’s health. Your sonographer will assign a BPP score of 0 or 2 points in each category and add them up. If the biophysical profile yields a maximum score of 10 points, all criteria are satisfied and the baby is perfectly healthy.

The criteria for each component of the test are listed.

The nonstress test:  Your baby’s heart rate must reach a certain level above the baseline twice or more for at least 10 seconds each within a 20-minute window.

Fetal breathing movement: At least one episode of continuous fetal breathing that lasts at least 30 seconds during a 30-minute window. 

Fetal movement: Three or more separate movements of the fetal body or limbs over 30 minutes.

Fetal muscle tone: Active extension or flexion of an arm or leg, or the opening and closing of a hand during a 30-minute window.

Volume of amniotic fluid: One single pocket of amniotic fluid measures at least one centimeter across and two centimeters vertically.

Results of BPP

The total of BPP scores mean: 

A score of 8-10: Reassuring! Although the test may be required later again, the result means your baby is doing fine in your tummy.

A score of 6: A second BPP is required within 12-24 hours. Depending on how far you are in your pregnancy, your baby may be delivered.

A score of 4 or less: You need additional tests or your baby needs to come out right away. 

Risks of the procedure

Biophysical profiles are noninvasive, hence, undergoing this test will not pose any threats to you and your baby. However, it might make you worried and anxious. Stress could potentially affect the results of the nonstress test portion of the BPP.