Foetal Hypoxia: Foetal hypoxia, or inadequate oxygen supply to the foetus, can be detected through low scores in foetal movements, foetal tone, and foetal breathing movements. These indicators suggest that the foetus might not be receiving sufficient oxygen, prompting immediate medical evaluation and potential intervention to prevent further complications.

Amniotic Fluid Abnormalities: The test measures the volume of amniotic fluid surrounding the foetus. Abnormal levels of amniotic fluid, either too low (oligohydramnios) or too high (polyhydramnios), can indicate issues such as foetal kidney problems, placental dysfunction, or maternal health conditions like diabetes. Identifying these abnormalities early allows for appropriate management and monitoring.

Placental Insufficiency: Placental insufficiency occurs when the placenta does not deliver enough nutrients and oxygen to the foetus. This condition can lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and is often indicated by low scores in various components of the BPP. The test helps in diagnosing this condition, enabling timely medical interventions to ensure better outcomes.

Foetal Distress: Foetal distress, which can be due to a variety of reasons including hypoxia or placental issues, is detected through the combined scoring of the BPP. A low overall score (4 or less) indicates potential foetal distress, necessitating immediate medical attention and possibly early delivery to safeguard the health of both the mother and the foetus.

Neurological Issues: The BPP assesses foetal tone and movements, which are critical indicators of the central nervous system's health. Abnormal findings can suggest potential neurological issues or developmental delays, allowing healthcare providers to plan for necessary treatments and interventions post-birth.

Foetal Growth Restriction (IUGR): Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can be identified through abnormalities in foetal movements, tone, and amniotic fluid volume. Detecting IUGR early is crucial for managing the pregnancy effectively, ensuring that the foetus receives adequate nutrition and monitoring for potential complications.

Preterm Labour Indicators: The non-stress test (NST) component of the BPP can reveal signs of preterm labour by monitoring uterine contractions and foetal heart rate responses. Early detection of preterm labour signs allows for interventions that can delay labour and improve neonatal outcomes.

Maternal Health Complications: Conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and chronic hypertension can affect foetal well-being and are often monitored through the BPP. Abnormal results can indicate that these maternal health issues are impacting the foetus, necessitating closer monitoring and potential treatment adjustments.

Expectant Mothers With High-Risk Pregnancies: Expectant mothers identified as high-risk due to factors such as advanced maternal age (35 years or older), a history of pregnancy complications, or carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) should undergo an Ultrasound BPS Obstetric test. This test helps monitor the health and well-being of both the mother and the foetus, ensuring timely interventions if necessary.

Women With Previous Pregnancy Complications: Women who have experienced complications in previous pregnancies, such as preterm labour, stillbirth, or preeclampsia, should consider a BPS test in subsequent pregnancies. This helps in early detection and management of any recurring issues, ensuring better outcomes.

Pregnant Women With Chronic Health Conditions: Pregnant women with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases are advised to get a BPS test. These health issues can impact foetal development, and the BPS helps monitor and manage potential complications.

Patients With Suspected Foetal Growth Restriction (IUGR): If intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is suspected, where the foetus is smaller than expected for its gestational age, a BPS test is crucial. It helps assess the foetus’s growth, movements, and overall health, guiding necessary medical interventions.

Women Noticing Decreased Foetal Movements: Pregnant women who report a noticeable decrease in foetal movements should undergo a BPS test. This decrease can be a sign of foetal distress or other complications, and the BPS helps in evaluating the foetus’s condition comprehensively.

Women With Abnormal Amniotic Fluid Levels: Women diagnosed with abnormal levels of amniotic fluid, such as oligohydramnios (low fluid) or polyhydramnios (high fluid), should have a BPS test. These conditions can affect foetal health, and the BPS helps in monitoring and managing them effectively.

Women With Gestational Hypertension Or Preeclampsia: Pregnant women diagnosed with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia should undergo a BPS test. These conditions can affect placental function and foetal well-being, and the BPS provides crucial information for managing the pregnancy.

Women With Post-Due Date Pregnancies: For pregnancies extending beyond the due date (post-term), a BPS test is often recommended. This test helps ensure the foetus is still thriving and that the placenta is functioning adequately to support the baby.

Expectant Mothers With General Concerns About Foetal Health: Any expectant mother with concerns about foetal health, whether due to abnormal ultrasound findings or other indicators, should consider a BPS test. This comprehensive evaluation helps in making informed decisions about pregnancy management.

Women Recovering From Maternal Infections: Women who have had infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus, or toxoplasmosis, should undergo a BPS test. These infections can impact foetal health, and the BPS helps in assessing any potential effects.

Preparation: The pregnant woman lies on an examination table in a comfortable position, typically with her abdomen exposed. The procedure is non-invasive and does not require any special preparation.

Ultrasound Imaging: A trained technician (sonographer) applies a gel to the mother’s abdomen to facilitate the transmission of sound waves. A transducer is then moved over the gel-covered area, emitting high-frequency sound waves into the body.

Assessment Of Foetal Movements: The ultrasound images are used to observe the foetus for spontaneous movements. These movements indicate neurological health and overall foetal activity.

Evaluation Of Foetal Tone: During the ultrasound, the technician looks for flexion and extension movements of the foetus’s limbs, which assess muscle tone and central nervous system function.

Monitoring Foetal Breathing Movements: The technician also monitors rhythmic movements of the foetal chest wall to assess breathing efforts, crucial for lung development.

Amniotic Fluid Measurement: Using an ultrasound, the depth and quantity of amniotic fluid surrounding the foetus are measured. Adequate fluid levels are essential for foetal protection, movement, and growth.

Non-Stress Test (NST): Concurrently with ultrasound imaging, two belts are placed on the mother’s abdomen. One belt records foetal heart rate, while the other monitors uterine contractions. The NST assesses foetal heart rate variability in response to foetal movements, indicating nervous system function and oxygenation.

Scoring: Each component—foetal movements, tone, breathing movements, amniotic fluid volume, and NST—is evaluated and scored based on predefined criteria.

Interpretation: Scores from each component are totaled to provide an overall Biophysical Profile Score (BPS) out of 10. This score helps healthcare providers assess foetal health and identify any concerns that may require further evaluation or intervention.

Clinical Decision-Making: Based on the BPS results, healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding pregnancy management, such as scheduling additional tests, monitoring more closely, or considering early delivery if necessary.

Post-Procedure: After the test, the pregnant woman can resume normal activities. The results are discussed with the healthcare expert, who may recommend follow-up appointments based on the findings.

Foetal Movements: Normal foetal movements indicate that the baby is active and responsive, demonstrating adequate muscle tone and central nervous system function. This suggests that the baby's neurological development is progressing as expected, with no signs of distress.

Foetal Tone: Normal foetal tone involves active flexion and extension movements of the limbs, indicating good muscle tone and neurological integrity. This reflects healthy nervous system development and readiness for movement in the womb.

Foetal Breathing Movements: Normal foetal breathing movements consist of rhythmic diaphragmatic motions, demonstrating that the baby is practicing breathing movements essential for lung development. This suggests that the respiratory system is maturing appropriately.

Amniotic Fluid Volume: Normal levels of amniotic fluid provide adequate cushioning and protection for the baby, allowing for unrestricted movement and supporting overall foetal growth. This indicates proper functioning of the foetal kidneys and placenta in maintaining fluid balance.

Non-Stress Test (NST): A normal NST shows appropriate foetal heart rate accelerations in response to foetal movements, indicating good oxygenation and nervous system function. This suggests that the baby is receiving sufficient oxygen and nutrients through the placenta.

Foetal Movements: Abnormal findings in foetal movements, such as fewer than 3 movements observed within the designated timeframe, can raise concerns about foetal distress. Reduced movement may indicate issues such as placental insufficiency, foetal neurological disorders, or a decrease in overall foetal well-being.

Foetal Tone: Absence of active flexion and extension movements of limbs, or presence of only slow and limited movements, may indicate foetal hypotonia (low muscle tone). This can be associated with neurological conditions or developmental abnormalities that affect the baby's motor skills and neurological development.

Foetal Breathing Movements: Lack of rhythmic breathing movements lasting at least 30 seconds during the ultrasound assessment may suggest challenges in foetal lung development. This could potentially indicate respiratory distress syndrome or other pulmonary issues that need further evaluation and monitoring.

Amniotic Fluid Volume: Abnormal levels of amniotic fluid, such as oligohydramnios (too little fluid) or polyhydramnios (too much fluid), can indicate underlying foetal conditions. Insufficient fluid may suggest foetal kidney problems or placental dysfunction, while excessive fluid could be associated with foetal anomalies or complications like twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.

Non-Stress Test (NST): A non-reactive NST, where the baby's heart rate fails to accelerate adequately in response to foetal movements, may indicate foetal hypoxia (oxygen deficiency) or placental insufficiency. This test helps evaluate the baby's cardiovascular and nervous system responses, providing critical information about foetal well-being.

Potential Discomfort: The procedure itself is non-invasive and painless for the mother and foetus. It involves the use of ultrasound waves, which are considered safe and do not use radiation.

False Positives And False Negatives: While the test is effective in assessing foetal well-being, there is a small possibility of false positives (indicating issues that do not actually exist) or false negatives (missing existing issues). This underscores the importance of clinical judgement and sometimes the need for additional testing.

Over diagnosis Or Under Diagnosis: Depending on the interpretation of the results, there is a slight risk of either over diagnosing conditions that do not require intervention or underdiagnosing potential issues that may require closer monitoring or intervention.

Emotional Stress: Abnormal results from the test may cause anxiety or stress for expectant parents. Its essential for healthcare providers to provide clear explanations and support during such situations.

Limited Scope: While the BPS provides valuable information about foetal health, it does not detect all potential foetal abnormalities or conditions. Other tests may be needed depending on specific circumstances.

Timing Concerns: The timing of the test may be critical for making decisions about the pregnancy, such as the timing of delivery. Accurate interpretation and timely action are crucial in these instances.

What Is An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Test?

How Long Does A BPS Obstetric Ultrasound Take?

What Is A Normal Biophysical Profile Score (BPS)?

Can An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Detect All Foetal Health Issues?

What Happens If An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Indicates A Problem?

Is A BPS Obstetric Ultrasound Painful?

Can I Eat Or Drink Before The Test?

What Should I Do If My BPS Score Is Low?

How Reliable Is An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Test?

Can The Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Test Predict Preterm Labour?

What If My Baby Is Not Very Active During The Test?

Can An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Test Be Done At Any Pregnancy Stage?

What Is The Difference Between A Standard Ultrasound & The BPS Obstetric?

How Does The Ultrasound BPS Obstetric Test Differ From A Doppler Ultrasound?

What Should I Wear To An Ultrasound BPS Obstetric?

What If I Have Twins Or Multiple Pregnancies?

How Does The Test Help In Managing High-Risk Pregnancies?

Does The Test Differ If I Suffer From Diabetes Or Hypertension?

How Soon Will I Get The Test Results?

Can I See My Baby During The Ultrasound?