Nonstress test (NST)

A Nonstress Test (NST) is a medical procedure used during pregnancy to monitor a baby's well-being, typically after the 28th week. It measures the baby's heart rate in response to its movements. Expectant mothers are usually placed in a comfortable position and connected to monitors that track the baby's heartbeat and movement for about 20 to 40 minutes. A healthy response shows that the baby is getting enough oxygen and is active. NSTs are non-invasive and commonly performed to assess if a baby is thriving, especially in high-risk pregnancies.