Main content Biophysical Profile (BPP)

    Biophysical Profile (BPP)



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    A biophysical profile (BPP) test measures the health of your baby (Reference fetus Opens New Window) during pregnancy. The results are scores on five measurements in a 30-minute observation period.

    A score of 8 to 10 points means that your baby is healthy. A score of 6 to 8 points means that you may need to be retested in 12 to 24 hours. A score of 4 or less may mean the baby is having problems. Further testing will be recommended.

    Biophysical profile Reference 1
    Measurement Normal (2 points) Abnormal (0 points)
    Nonstress test

    2 or more heart rate increases of at least 15 beats per minute. Each increase lasts 15 seconds or more and is seen with movement.

    Only 1 heart rate increase is seen, or the heart rate does not increase by more than 15 beats with movement.
    Breathing movement

    1 or more breathing movements last at least 60 seconds.

    Breathing movement lasts less than 60 seconds, or no breathing is seen.
    Body movement

    3 or more movements of the arms, legs, or body

    Less than 3 movements of the arms, legs, or body
    Muscle tone

    Arms and legs are usually flexed and the head rests on the chest. 1 or more extensions and return to flexion are seen, such as the opening and closing of a hand.

    The fetus extends slowly and only returns partway to a normal position.

    The fetus extends but does not return to a normal position.

    The arms, legs, or spine are extended, or a hand is open.
    Amniotic fluid volume (Reference amniotic fluid index Opens New Window)
    • One or more pockets of amniotic fluid are seen in the uterus, each at least 1 cm (0.4 in.) wide and long.
    • The amniotic fluid index is between 5 cm (2 in.) and 24 cm (9.4 in.).Reference 2

    Not enough amniotic fluid is seen in the uterus.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference June 18, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
    Reference William Gilbert, MD - Maternal and Fetal Medicine


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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