Biophysical Profile Ultrasound

A Biophysical Profile (BPP) ultrasound is a specialized obstetrical examination typically performed during the third trimester of pregnancy. This assessment is used to help evaluate the baby’s overall well-being and monitor certain aspects of fetal health later in pregnancy.

During the examination, the sonographer carefully assesses several markers of fetal well-being, which may include:

• Baby’s position
• Breathing movements
• Muscle tone and body movements
• Amniotic fluid levels
• Fetal heartbeat
• Placental evaluation
• Umbilical cord Doppler assessment

This examination helps healthcare providers evaluate how the baby is doing inside the uterus and may be recommended in certain pregnancies that require closer monitoring.

Because the sonographer must observe and document specific fetal movements and measurements, the length of the examination can vary. In some cases, additional time may be required depending on the baby’s position, activity level, or technical imaging factors.

Please understand that during the BPP ultrasound, we may not always be able to show you the fetus or provide viewing opportunities. This can depend on several factors including:

• Baby’s position and movement
• Technical limitations
• The specific findings or monitoring requirements during the examination

For patient comfort and privacy, we allow one guest to join at the end of the examination whenever possible. This allows the sonographer uninterrupted time to focus on obtaining all required diagnostic images and observations. Depending on the findings or complexity of the examination, guest viewing may unfortunately not always be possible.

During the scan, the ultrasound screen will not be visible while the technologist is performing the examination. This is intentional and allows the sonographer to fully concentrate on capturing the best possible diagnostic images and observations for the radiologist’s interpretation.

Your sonographer will assess and confirm your baby’s heartbeat as part of the examination. Fetal heart rate is typically evaluated using M-mode (Motion Mode) ultrasound, which measures and records the movement of the baby’s heart over time. This allows the heart rate to be accurately calculated while using standard ultrasound imaging.

By comparison, the familiar “heartbeat sound” heard during some scans is produced using Doppler audio, which uses a different ultrasound technique to detect motion and blood flow and convert it into an audible sound. Because Doppler technology uses higher acoustic energy than M-mode, current ultrasound safety recommendations support using M-mode for routine fetal heart rate assessment, especially during the first trimester.

While the heartbeat is carefully monitored and documented to ensure your baby’s well-being, audio playback of the heartbeat is not provided during the examination.

Our technologists are highly trained professionals whose role is to obtain the required images and measurements. They are unable to provide results or discuss findings during the appointment. All images and observations are reviewed by a radiologist, and results are sent to your referring healthcare provider.

Patients can enjoy free access to both their ultrasound images and reports through PocketHealth following their examination. PocketHealth is a secure online portal that allows you to view, download, and share your imaging records anytime, from any device. This provides an easy and convenient way to keep your pregnancy images and reports accessible throughout your care journey. https://www.pocket.health/en-US/EDI/intro

We understand that pregnancy ultrasounds can be both exciting and emotional experiences, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize accurate monitoring, patient care, and the health of both parent and baby.