Dumb question I know

amlea81

Okay, what's a non-stress test and why do some do it and others (like me) have no idea what it's even for? TIA!

lil_rhody

This is not a dumb question because I've been wondering too!

anngee410

It's a test where they hook you up to 2 monitors. 1 that measures uterine contractions and 1 that monitors fetal heart rate. Typically you are put on it for 20 mins and you are given a clicker to press whenever you feel the baby move. The are looking for acceleration/deceleration of baby's heart rate to make sure that it is normal.

I had to start getting them weekly after 36 weeks due to my tyroid problems. (I am hypothyroid w/Hashimoto's disease) I don't know what other conditions would qualify you for this. I know they do tend to schedule them if you go over your due date though.

They don't hurt at all and if anything it is nice to sit and hear LO's heartbeat for 20 mins! 

MelissaAB5579

I've had 2, once when I went to L&D for decreased movement, and the other when I fell last week ( right before my appt) and they wanted to make sure I wasn't contracting. Like PP said it doesn't hurt at all, and if anything it's nice listening to your LO's h/b for 20 mins or so.

Mskharis

Like PP said. I have to get one once a week now to make sure my placenta is doing what it's supposed to be doing.

minnteacher

I get them because I have GD.