Procedure: Biophysical profile

The biophysical profile is one of the most popular methods of foetal surveillance for postterm pregnancies . The profile is performed using real-time ultrasound and consists of four distinct measures: foetal breathing, foetal movement , foetal tone and amniotic fluid volume with or without the non-stress test. Many of those who use this as the primary method of foetal surveillance in postterm pregnancy consider the amniotic fluid volume to be the most important measure of the biophysical profile for assessing foetal well-being and, if this one aspect is abnormal, consideration should be given to quickly accomplishing delivery .

The information in this page is presented in summarised form and has been taken from the following source(s):
1. Hygeia Foundation : http://hygeia.org/