BPP Scan

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What is the BPP test?

A doctor recommends a BPP (Biophysical Profile Test) or an Ultra Sonography for pregnant women who have passed their due date without delivering, or for those who have a higher risk of health problems during the pregnancy. The risks could be anything from diabetes to preeclampsia. BPP is also recommended if a pregnant woman has gone through any trauma, mental or physical (a fall or an accident). It is conducted between the 32nd and 34th week of pregnancy. Why is it done? The BPP test is a combination of tests that monitors the baby’s health. During the test, the healthcare specialist learns more about the baby’s movements, heart rate, muscle quality, inhalation action, and the amount of amniotic fluid protecting the baby in the womb. The test is recommended strictly if:

The woman has given birth to a stillborn in her previous pregnancy
The pregnancy has passed the due date (>40 weeks gestation)
The pregnant woman has diabetes/ gestational diabetes/ hypertension/ other disorders like preeclampsia
Multiple pregnancies are suspected (twins or more)
When polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios (a complication concerning amniotic fluid) is suspected
The baby has intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)

How is a BPP test done? A biophysical profile (BPP) is executed by an obstetrician or an ultrasound technician or a radiologist. It is safe and non-invasive and takes not more than an hour. A biophysical profile test starts with an ultrasound. A sonographer asks the patient to lie on a couch, uncovers the abdomen and applies gel on it. Then he/she passes a handheld probe over the skin of the abdomen to examine the baby’s body. The gel is applied to make sure that there is good contact between the probe and the skin. As the probe moves, a black and white 2-D image of the baby will appear on the ultrasound screen. The image is used to check the baby’s movements and the amount of amniotic fluid. Another part of the BPP is a non-stress test which is performed if the doctor needs more information. This is used to monitor the baby’s heartbeat for 20 minutes. Here, the healthcare specialist puts an elastic band (which consists of two sensors) around the belly of the mother-to-be to pick up the baby’s heartbeat. Why Motherhood? Our Obstetric services include Antenatal care (before birth), Intrapartum care (during labour and delivery), and Postnatal care (after birth). Our team of doctors do their best to ensure the good health of mother and child. They provide assistance with all tests/procedures. Book an appointment today.