A Biophysical Profile (BPP) is an ultrasound evaluation of fetal well-being and health. The test is done for specific indications such as:

• Diabetes mellitus and Gestational diabetes
• Preexisting hypertension or pregnancy induced hypertension
• Cholestasis of pregnancy
• Lupus
• Poor fetal growth
• Abnormal amniotic fluid volume
• Decreased fetal movement
• Twins, and triplets or other multiple gestations
• Advanced maternal age
• Post-dates pregnancy
• Bleeding complications
• Many other high-risk conditions.

The test is scheduled usually in the third trimester and sometimes in the second trimester and can be either weekly or twice weekly.

The test evaluates four parameters of fetal well-being: Fetal breathing, fetal movement, fetal muscle tone as well as the adequacy of the amniotic fluid. An additional parameter may be added in a hospital setting and that is to include a fetal heart rate tracing to determine the presence of fetal reactivity and activity.

The presence of all 4 parameters gives a reassuring score of 8. Any score less than that requires further testing and evaluation.