What Is BPP in a Pregnancy Scan Report?
Many expecting mothers notice the term “BPP” mentioned in their pregnancy scan report and wonder what it means.
BPP stands for Biophysical Profile, a special scan performed during the later months of pregnancy to check the baby’s health and activity inside the womb.
At Nisarga Diagnostics, one of the trusted ultrasound scan centres in North Bangalore, doctors use the BPP test to ensure that the baby is growing normally and receiving enough oxygen and nutrients.
What Is a Biophysical Profile (BPP)?
The BPP scan is a combination of ultrasound imaging and fetal heart rate monitoring.
It gives doctors a detailed idea of how well your baby is doing inside the uterus.
The scan usually evaluates five major parameters related to your baby’s health:
Baby’s body movement
Breathing movements
Muscle tone
Amniotic fluid level
Heart rate (monitored through a non-stress test, if required)
Each of these parameters helps doctors understand how active, strong, and healthy your baby is before birth.
How Is a BPP Scan Performed?
BPP is generally performed during the third trimester, usually between 32 to 36 weeks.
It may be recommended earlier if your doctor suspects:
- Gestational diabetes or high blood pressure
- Low or high amniotic fluid levels
- Reduced fetal movements
- Any complications in previous pregnancies
- Twin or high-risk pregnancies
How Is the BPP Scored?
Each of the five parameters receives a score of 0 or 2 points:
- 2 points = normal activity or movement
- 0 points = abnormal or not observed
Total BPP Score | Meaning |
8 to 10 | Baby is healthy and well-oxygenated |
6 | Borderline — follow-up may be required |
4 or less | Indicates possible concern — doctor will advise further testing or close monitoring |
👉 A good BPP score means your baby is active, well-nourished, and receiving proper oxygen through the placenta.
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Why Is the BPP Important?
The Biophysical Profile gives doctors a clear idea of how well your baby is thriving inside the womb.
It helps to:
- Ensure the baby is receiving enough oxygen
- Detect signs of fetal distress or poor growth
- Check amniotic fluid levels
- Decide if early delivery might be necessary in rare cases
It’s one of the most valuable late-pregnancy scans that helps ensure both the mother and baby are safe and healthy.
What If the BPP Score Is Low?
A low BPP score doesn’t always mean there is a serious problem — sometimes, the baby might just be sleeping during the scan.
Your doctor may recommend:
- Repeating the scan after a few hours or the next day
- Performing a Doppler test to check blood flow
- Monitoring fetal heart rate and movements
The goal is always to ensure your baby’s safety and take preventive action before any complication arises.
BPP at Nisarga Diagnostics
At Nisarga Diagnostics, Sanjaynagar, our experienced radiologists perform detailed BPP scans, fetal growth scans, and Doppler studies using advanced ultrasound machines.
We ensure accurate results and clear explanations so every expecting mother feels confident and informed.
📞 Contact Us:
+91 88677 57594 | +91 91025 97025
🌐 www.nisargadiagnostics.com
Conclusion
The BPP scan is an important test in the final stages of pregnancy.
It helps doctors evaluate your baby’s overall health, oxygen levels, and movement — ensuring your little one is growing safely before delivery.
A good BPP score means your baby is happy, active, and healthy inside the womb. 💖
Founder of Nisarga Diagnostics, is a renowned fetal ultrasound specialist with over 20 years of expertise. An alumnus of Government Medical Colleges in Mysore and Bangalore, he also holds a D.N.B. from the National Board of Examinations, Delhi, and certification from the Fetal Medicine Foundation, London. A former Professor and HOD, he has trained countless PG students and junior radiologists, shaping the future of fetal imaging in India.