Biophysical profile

What is a biophysical profile? 

A biophysical profile (BPP) is a non-invasive diagnostic that uses a combination of two painless tests to assess overall fetal health. It is most likely done in the third trimester of pregnancy in women who are at higher risk of having a complicated pregnancy. 

Why is a biophysical profile recommended? 

The test is recommended for women with certain health conditions that can affect their reproductive health. The doctor recommends the test if you suffer from health conditions like:

• Severe asthma 
• Diabetes 
• Hypertension 
• If you carry two or more fetuses 
• If you have a history of a stillbirth 
• The fetus appears to be too small at a particular pregnancy stage 
• If the fetus has become less active  
• If you have gone past your due date 
• If there is too much or too little amniotic fluid inside the uterus

How is a biophysical profile performed? 

A biophysical profile is a painless procedure combining an ultrasound imaging test with a non-stress test to examine the well-being of the fetus inside the uterus. This test does not require much preparation on the patient’s part. It might be performed on the same day it is ordered or on a different day. The doctor might suggest you eat prior to it as the babies are more active once the mother has eaten something. You might also consider emptying your bladder as it will make you more comfortable. 

Non-stress test 

You will be asked to lie down on your left side to monitor the baby’s heart rate. The nurse will then place two monitoring devices on your abdomen, which are held in place using elastic belts. One device records the baby’s heartbeat, and the other records contractions of the uterus. 

The fetus’s movement and heart rate are studied through the course of the test. Just like a person’s heart beats faster when they indulge in any physical activities, the fetus’s heart also beats faster when kicking and moving. 

If a minimum of two elevations in the fetal heart rate are not noticed during the test, it might indicate that the fetus is asleep. In this case, the practitioner performing the test might awaken the fetus with a buzzer or any other sound outside your belly. 

Biophysical profile ultrasound 

This is the second part of the test wherein the practitioner uses an ultrasound machine to see the fetus’s position and observe its movement. The ultrasound takes about 30 minutes. The ultrasound practitioner rubs a transducer device all over the patient’s abdomen area. It sends harmless sound waves into your body, echoing off structures inside, forming images of the uterus and the fetus. It helps visualize the volume of amniotic fluid in the uterus, ensuring it is appropriate for the stage of pregnancy. The amniotic fluid protects the fetus from injuries or any abrupt temperature changes and allows free movement inside the uterus. 

What are the risks associated with a biophysical profile? 

A biophysical profile is non-invasive and painless. It poses no risk to the fetus or the mother’s health. However, it is ideal to discuss any concerns related to it prior to the test. 

What is a good biophysical profile score? 

All parameters related to the fetus’s heartbeat and movement are studied using the non-stress test and ultrasound and scored accordingly. Every parameter receives either zero or two points. The maximum score that can be attained in this test is eight points. The higher the score, the better the fetus’s health. 

Criteria for earning more points 

• Three or more separate movements of the fetus or limbs within 30 minutes 
• Active flexion or extension of legs or arms within 30 minutes 
• Continuous breathing lasting up to 30 seconds within the 30-minute time frame 
• At least one pocket of amniotic fluid measuring one centimeter horizontally and 2 centimeters vertically 

Any aspect that does not align with the above-mentioned parameters receives a zero point. Please do not panic if you receive a low biophysical profile score. It does not mean that your baby’s condition is abnormal, as the score can be affected by various conditions and factors. 

What does your biophysical profile score mean? 

• If your biophysical profile score is 8 with appropriate amniotic fluid volume, your baby is healthy.
• If your biophysical profile score is 6, it indicates some potential problems with the fetus, requiring additional testing.
• If your biophysical profile score is 4 or below, you might need to deliver the baby immediately. In exceptional circumstances, additional tests are performed that might delay the delivery. 

Test results 

The results are generally provided on the same day of the test. Once your tests are complete, the practitioner will set up a meeting with your obstetrician to help explain the results to you. 

Contact Fortis Healthcare to learn more about biophysical profiles.

FAQs 

Why should I get a biophysical profile done? 

Generally, a biophysical profile is done during the 28^th week of the pregnancy (the last trimester). The test is recommended if you suffer from health problems that might lead to pregnancy loss. A doctor might suggest it earlier if they foresee any risks related to the pregnancy. 

Is a biophysical profile test painful?

A biophysical profile test is non-invasive and painless. It poses no risk to the fetus or mother’s health. 

Are there any other tests like biophysical profile?

A prenatal abdominal ultrasound scan, an amniotic fluid index (AFI) test, or an amniotic fluid volume test are like a biophysical profile.  

Is low amniotic fluid dangerous for the baby? 

Having low amniotic fluid might affect the baby’s growth, but it is treatable. It commonly occurs in the third trimester and can be improved by drinking more water and consuming fruits and vegetables with high water content, like cucumber, watermelon, tomatoes, and muskmelons, to increase the fluid content.