Confirmation of fetal health
A normal biophysical profile and Doppler study provide strong evidence that the baby is well‑oxygenated and not in distress – even if you have risk factors.
A fetal well‑being scan is a detailed evaluation performed in the third trimester to assess how your baby is coping with the demands of pregnancy. It goes beyond basic growth measurements to evaluate fetal movements, tone, breathing, heart rate, and blood flow – providing a comprehensive picture of your baby's health.
The scan typically includes a biophysical profile (BPP), which assesses five parameters: fetal breathing, movement, tone, amniotic fluid volume, and heart rate reactivity (non‑stress test). When indicated, Doppler studies of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and ductus venosus are added to evaluate placental and fetal circulation.
At Amytri, our fetal well‑being scans are performed by consultant radiologists with expertise in fetal medicine. We use state‑of‑the‑art ultrasound and fetal monitoring equipment to provide accurate, reassuring assessments. We explain every aspect of the evaluation and work closely with your obstetrician to ensure coordinated care.
The fetal well‑being scan is a powerful tool to confirm that your baby is healthy and coping well, even in high‑risk situations.
A normal biophysical profile and Doppler study provide strong evidence that the baby is well‑oxygenated and not in distress – even if you have risk factors.
If the scan suggests compromise, it can prompt timely delivery or further monitoring – reducing the risk of stillbirth and neonatal complications.
For women with conditions like pre‑eclampsia, diabetes, or growth restriction, serial well‑being scans help tailor interventions and timing.
Our fetal well‑being scan integrates multiple modalities to give a holistic view of your baby's health.
We score five parameters – fetal breathing movements, gross body movements, fetal tone, amniotic fluid volume, and heart rate reactivity – each up to 2 points, for a total of 10. A score ≥8 is normal.
We measure blood flow velocity in the umbilical artery (assessing placental resistance), middle cerebral artery (assessing fetal brain perfusion), and ductus venosus (assessing cardiac function) – key indicators of fetal wellbeing.
We monitor fetal heart rate accelerations and variability over 20‑30 minutes. A reactive NST (with at least two accelerations) is reassuring.
We measure the amniotic fluid index (AFI) or deepest vertical pocket – abnormal fluid (too much or too little) can indicate placental dysfunction or other issues.
We evaluate placental location, maturity (grade), and any abnormalities like calcifications or placental lakes.
We measure head, abdomen, and femur to estimate fetal weight – important for detecting growth restriction or macrosomia.
We recommend booking based on your obstetrician's advice – often from 28 weeks onwards, especially if you have risk factors.
You can eat and drink normally. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. A full bladder is not required.
We perform the ultrasound (BPP and Doppler) and then monitor the fetal heart rate with an NST. The whole process takes 30‑45 minutes.
We review the BPP score, Doppler indices, and NST results with you on the spot. A detailed report is provided for your records and your obstetrician.
It is often part of the third‑trimester surveillance for high‑risk pregnancies, but may also be offered for reassurance in uncomplicated pregnancies.
These conditions can affect placental blood flow – well‑being scans help monitor fetal adaptation and guide delivery timing.
Diabetes can affect amniotic fluid, fetal size, and placental function – regular well‑being scans are often recommended.
Babies with poor growth need close monitoring of umbilical artery Doppler and BPP to decide when to deliver.
If you notice reduced movements, a well‑being scan can provide reassurance or identify the need for intervention.
Twins or triplets need regular well‑being checks to ensure both babies are growing and thriving.
As you approach 41 weeks and beyond, a well‑being scan helps assess whether the placenta is still functioning well.
Our consultant radiologist has extensive experience in third‑trimester fetal assessment – including biophysical profiling, Doppler interpretation, and non‑stress testing. We combine technical expertise with a compassionate approach, ensuring you receive accurate information and clear guidance.
The fetal well‑being scan is an important milestone – having your partner with you provides support and shared understanding.
We welcome partners into our comfortable scan room. We explain the BPP and NST as we go, so you both understand what's being assessed. If any concerns arise, we discuss them sensitively and provide a clear plan for next steps.
It is a comprehensive third‑trimester assessment that combines ultrasound (biophysical profile and Doppler) with fetal heart rate monitoring (non‑stress test) to evaluate how well your baby is coping.
Yes. A growth scan focuses on measurements and weight estimation. A well‑being scan includes those but adds functional assessments – breathing, movements, tone, fluid, heart rate reactivity, and blood flow – to determine if the baby is in distress.
Typically 30‑45 minutes. The NST may take 20‑30 minutes alone, so please allow enough time.
Yes. Ultrasound and fetal heart rate monitoring are safe and have no known harmful effects on you or your baby.
The BPP scores five parameters (breathing, movement, tone, fluid, and heart rate). A score of 8‑10 is normal and reassuring. A score below 6 may indicate the need for further evaluation or delivery.
No, you can book directly. However, we coordinate closely with your obstetrician to ensure continuity of care.
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