Fetal Health Evaluation Specialist

What is a fetal health evaluation?

A fetal health evaluation is an appointment during which your Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology physician conducts a number of screenings and tests to determine the health of your growing fetus.

Examples of screenings and tests they may perform include:

Nonstress test (NST)

When your doctor monitors your baby’s heart rate via a test called the nonstress test (NST), they can make sure that the baby’s heart rate increases when it moves. 

Biophysical profile (BPP) exam

During this exam, your doctor uses an ultrasound machine to check your baby’s movement, breathing efforts, and body tone.

Cardiovascular response testing

By testing fetal cardiovascular responses, you can discover things about the fetus, like if it is struggling with anemia, or if it’s being inhibited by intrauterine growth restriction.

Amniotic fluid index (AFI) exam

During an AFI exam, your Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology team member uses an ultrasound to measure the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby. They usually recommend this exam if you’re past your due date, or your water has a history of breaking prematurely. 

Does my baby need a fetal health assessment?

If you’re pregnant, you should schedule fetal health assessment visits periodically throughout your term to make sure that your baby is growing well and staying on track. Ultrasound fetal health tests offer you insight into important details like:

• Your gestational age (how far along you are)
• Fetal position before you give birth
• How many babies you’re carrying
• Your pregnancy location (inside the uterus vs. outside the uterus)
• The state of your placenta
• Amniotic fluid levels

During an ultrasound, if you’re far enough along, you can learn the sex of your baby if you want. Note, though, that doctors don’t recommend that you get an ultrasound just to learn this detail.

Is a fetal health evaluation painful?

During a fetal health evaluation, you should feel no pain. Typically, you get to lean back and relax as your Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology ultrasound technician scans your abdomen.

Doctors have been using ultrasound technology for decades and have determined that it poses no threat to mom or baby.

If you’re pregnant, keep up with your baby’s growth by periodically scheduling fetal health evaluations. For the most comprehensive care in a warm environment, book yours at Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology over the phone or via the online booking tool.