Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Contraction stress test (CST)

A contraction stress test (CST) measures the fetus's ability to tolerate the stress of uterine contractions started (induced) before true labor begins.

Electronic fetal monitoring is done during a contraction stress test to evaluate the fetus's heart rate during contractions. The fetus's heart rate during contractions helps evaluate the placenta's ability to provide enough oxygen to the fetus.

A contraction stress test that shows the placenta is not supplying enough oxygen to the fetus will help the doctor determine the safest method of delivery.

A contraction stress test is also called an oxytocin challenge test.