A contraction stress test is a way to test the health of an unborn baby. It checks the baby's heart rate during a uterine contraction. During this test, the baby's heart rate and the mother's contractions are recorded.
Most contractions decrease the flow of blood to the baby for a short time.
By observing the baby's heart rate during a contraction, your health care provider can tell if the baby is able to handle the stress of the contractions that occur during labor. The results of the biophysical profile score are low. Your health care provider suspects that you or your baby has a high-risk condition. Your health care provider measures contractions of your uterus by placing a strap with a pressure gauge around your abdomen. Your baby's heart rate is measured with an ultrasound transducer.