We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Biophysical Profile?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,391
Share

A biophysical profile, also known as a BPP test, is a test performed in late pregnancy to assess the health of the fetus. This test may be performed when a woman is past her due date, when a woman has a high risk pregnancy, or when a doctor is concerned for some other reason about the health of the baby. This test is noninvasive and not painful, and it can be a valuable way to gather information about the health of the pregnancy without subjecting mother or fetus to distress.

In a biophysical profile, two separate tests are performed. The first is a nonstress test, in which the mother wears a fetal heart monitor so that the fetal heartbeat can be listened to. After this test, an ultrasound scan is performed to examine the fetus in utero, and to look for any signs of a problem. The primary goal of the biophysical profile is to confirm that the fetus is getting enough oxygen.

Typically, at the end of the test, a score will be prepared. The score is based on several different parameters noted during the test. Scoring systems vary, which means that there's no particular “normal” number. Usually the doctor will discuss the implications of the score with the expecting mother. If the score is low or problems are identified, the doctor will talk about what those problems mean, and what the options are.

Women are usually asked to have a full bladder for the biophysical profile. They may also be asked to refrain from activities which might make the fetus less active during the test, and to wear loose, comfortable clothing. It will be necessary to lie on a table for the ultrasound examination, and staff in the room can help the expecting mother get comfortable with pillows and supports so that she will be able to hold still for the test.

If a doctor recommends a biophysical profile test, it is not a cause for panic. The doctor may be concerned about being as thorough and careful as possible, to avoid the risk of unidentified problems in pregnancy. There are also a number of things which can influence test results, so poor results are not necessarily a sign that the fetus is in distress. If test results do suggest that there might be a problem, the test may be repeated, and additional testing can be performed to learn more about the situation.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-a-biophysical-profile.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.