Some women who are experiencing issues with their pregnancy might need a contraction stress test. However, it does not happen often. A biophysical profile or a nonstress test is usually administered. If those results indicate a potential problem, your doctor can suggest a contraction stress test as a follow-up.
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Contraction Stress Test
Photo by ANTONI SHKRABA
A contraction stress test (CST) is a type of testing for expectant mothers. Through uterine contractions, it keeps an eye out for signs of stress in your baby.
During the test, your uterus will contract due to a hormone your doctor will deliver. Despite the fact that they resemble labour contractions, these contractions typically do not start labour.
During labour contractions, your baby’s blood and oxygen levels momentarily drop. The majority of infants can handle this reduction, but some infants’ heart rates drop even after the contraction is over.
A CST simulates labour contractions to test if your baby can endure the drop in blood and oxygen levels.
How Is a Contraction Stress Test Done?
Two belts will be strapped around your midsection as you lay down. The heartbeat of your unborn kid is measured by one, and labour pains are detected by the other.
Your doctor might administer an IV infusion of oxytocin to start labour or may advise you to stimulate your nipples through your clothing as an option for inducing birth.
As you wait, the monitors will start to record your baby’s heartbeat and your contractions. It takes roughly two hours to complete the exam. There’s a chance you’ll have painful contractions.
CST is mostly safe, despite the fact that it can occasionally lead to early labour. Women who have had a previous C-section, have placenta previa, or are at higher risk for uterine rupture are at higher risk for the test. Nevertheless, your doctor will recommend if it’s best to take the contraction stress test or not.
Your doctor may recommend you take a contraction stress test if:
- Your pregnancy is high-risk.
- You’re diabetic.
- You experienced difficulties during a prior pregnancy.
- The 40th week of your pregnancy has passed.
- Your non-stress test or biophysical profile results are unusual
Women may have a contraction stress test at 32 weeks or later. Before that, the test might not be secure. The frequency of the test changes depending on the situation.
Positive Contraction Stress Test
CST outcomes could be favourable or unfavourable. They might also be unsure. Your doctor might want to repeat the test in a few days if the results are unclear:
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Positive Contraction Stress test
Abnormal data show that the fetal heart rate slows and remains slow after the contraction for more than half of the contractions.
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Contraction Stress Test Negative
In a healthy test, the fetal heart rate does not go down before, during, or after contractions.
If your test results are positive, your baby might not be able to survive the stress of labour contractions. Your doctor could suggest other tests, such as another contraction stress test a week or two later. If you continue to have positive contraction stress test results, your doctor may suggest a cesarean delivery.
Contraction Stress Test Negative
Results from the CST are valid for seven days. If your contraction stress test is negative and your pregnancy has persisted for more than a week since your last CST, your doctor may advise having another CST done in a few days to a week.
Your doctor might suggest cesarean delivery or induction if the results of the CST are positive. According to studies, a positive contraction stress test result is a reliable indicator of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns after birth.
Contraction Stress Test vs Non Stress Test
Here’s the difference between a non-stress test and a contraction stress test:
In a non-stress test, your baby’s heart rate is monitored without applying any external stress. A contraction stress test examines your unborn child’s heart rate during times of stress.
Your healthcare provider will give you thorough advice on how to be ready for a contraction stress test. Typically, you wait four to eight hours before the test before eating or drinking anything.
Risks of a Contraction Stress Test
In addition, CST has some risks to it. You and your doctor will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of CST.
It poses the following risks:
- Possibility of resuming labour
- Pitocin may cause fetal discomfort.
- Discomfort for the mum
Hospital staff will closely monitor you before, during, and after the test. A CST might not be recommended if you are at risk for premature labour or have placenta previa.
People with multiples (twins, triplets, or more) may be unable to take a contraction stress test. If you are expecting multiples, the test has a higher chance of inducing labour.
ALSO READ:
Understanding Prenatal Testing: The Tests You Need to Have Per Trimester
Simple Tips on How to Tell Your Baby’s Fetal Position in the Womb
Contraction Stress Test Alternatives
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Non-stress Test
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Biophysical Profile
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Doppler ultrasound exam
Consult your doctor about the contraction stress exam
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