First used during World War II to detect enemy submarines below the surface of the water, ultrasound has since been used safely in obstetrics. Occasionally, the date of your last menstrual period is not sufficient to determine a due date. Ultrasound can provide an accurate gestational age and due date that may be very important if it is necessary to induce labor early or perform a cesarean delivery. Fetal movement records. Recording fetal movement is a test you can do by yourself to help determine the condition of the baby.
Fetal activity is generally a reassuring sign of well-being.
Women are often asked to count fetal movements regularly during the last trimester of pregnancy. You may be asked to set aside specific times to lie down on your back or side and count the number of times the baby moves or kicks. Three or more movements in a 2 hour period is considered normal. Contact your obstetrician if you feel fewer than three movements to determine if other tests are needed. Modern instruments make it possible to monitor the baby's heart rate before delivery.