A score is given to each area. This score is based on the amount of fetal breathing that occurs. Movement of the baby's body is noted. A normal score indicates normal body movements. An abnormal score is applied when there are few or no body movements during the allotted time period.
Fetal tone is evaluated similarly.
Movement, or lack of movement, of the arms and legs of the baby is noted. Amniotic-fluid volume evaluation requires experience in ultrasound examination. A normal pregnancy has adequate fluid around the baby. An abnormal test indicates no amniotic fluid or decreased amniotic fluid around the baby. Fetal heart-rate monitoring is done with external monitors.