Biophysical Profile (BPP): Results
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Results
A biophysical profile (BPP) test measures the health of your baby (fetus) during pregnancy. The results are scores on five measurements in a 30-minute observation period.
A score of 8 to 10 points means that your baby is healthy. A score of 6 to 8 points means that you may need to be retested in 12 to 24 hours. A score of 4 or less may mean the baby is having problems. Further testing will be recommended.
| Measurement | Normal (2 points) | Abnormal (0 points) |
|---|---|---|
| Nonstress test | 2 or more heart rate increases of 15 beats per minute or more are seen with movement. | Only 1 heart rate increase is seen, or the heart rate does not increase by more than 15 beats with movement. |
| Breathing movement | 1 or more breathing movements last at least 30 seconds. | Breathing movement lasts less than 30 seconds, or no breathing is seen. |
| Body movement | 3 or more movements of the arms, legs, or body | Less than 3 movements of the arms, legs, or body |
| Muscle tone | Arms and legs are usually flexed and the head rests on the chest. 1 or more extensions and return to flexion are seen, such as the opening and closing of a hand. | The fetus extends slowly and only returns partway to a normal position. The fetus extends but does not return to a normal position. The arms, legs, or spine are extended, or a hand is open. |
| Amniotic fluid volume | At least one pocket of amniotic fluid of at least | Not enough amniotic fluid is seen in the uterine cavity. |
| Last updated: | June 28, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Reviewed By: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
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