Fetal Contraction Stress Test

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Contraction Stress Test (CST)
• Technical Term: Fetal Contraction Stress Test

Summary

A Contraction Stress Test (CST) is a prenatal test that involves inducing contractions to assess how the fetal heart rate responds. It helps determine if the baby can handle labor contractions.

Purpose

• Medical Condition Addressed: This test evaluates fetal wellbeing, particularly in high-risk pregnancies.
• Goals and Expected Outcomes: The primary goal is to ensure the fetus receives enough oxygen during contractions, predicting how the baby will cope with the stress of labor.

Indications

• Symptoms or Conditions: Concerns about fetal health due to diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions in the mother.
• Patient Criteria: Typically recommended for women with high-risk pregnancies or when other tests indicate possible fetal distress.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Normally, no special preparation is needed. Patients are advised to eat and drink normally.
• Diagnostic Tests: An ultrasound and non-stress test may be performed beforehand to gather baseline data.

Procedure Description

1. Monitoring Device Setup: The patient lies down, and two monitors are placed on their abdomen – one for fetal heart rate and one for uterine contractions.
2. Stimulation of Contractions: Contractions are stimulated either through nipple stimulation or by administering a small dose of oxytocin.
3. Observation: The fetal heart rate is monitored to observe how it responds to contractions.
4. Analysis: Doctors analyze the patterns to ensure there are no signs of distress.

Duration

• Typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

• Performed in a hospital labor and delivery unit or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved: A trained nurse or midwife usually conducts the test under the supervision of an obstetrician.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Slight discomfort due to stimulation of contractions.
• Rare Risks and Complications: Inducing labor or prolonged contractions (hyperstimulation), which might require medication to stop contractions if they don't cease naturally.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Assures the healthcare provider of the fetus's ability to handle labor.
• Realization Time: Immediate results, usually analyzed shortly after the test.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: No special care is typically needed; normal activity can be resumed.
• Expected Recovery Time: Immediate. Patients can go home right after the test unless there are concerns requiring further monitoring.
• Restrictions: None generally but follow specific advice from the healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Non-Stress Test (NST), Biophysical Profile (BPP), Doppler Ultrasound.
• Pros and Cons of Alternatives: NST is non-invasive but might not give as detailed a picture; BPP is more comprehensive but takes longer; Doppler Ultrasound provides detailed blood flow info.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Expect minor discomfort from contractions; typically manageable.
• Pain Management: No major pain relief needed, but the patient can discuss discomfort management options with the care team.