Fetal Biophysical Profile (BPP) Score
5-component ultrasound-based assessment of fetal wellbeing. Each component scores 0 or 2. Total 0–10. Used for fetal surveillance in high-risk pregnancies. Score ≤6 may indicate fetal compromise.
Score interpretation
BPP 8–10 — normal fetal condition; low risk of fetal asphyxia
→ Repeat based on clinical indication (weekly or twice weekly in high-risk pregnancy); continue current management
BPP 6 — equivocal result; possible fetal compromise
→ Repeat BPP in 4–6 hours; assess gestational age; if ≥36 weeks or oligohydramnios, consider delivery; if <36 weeks, repeat monitoring; senior obstetrics review
BPP 4 — abnormal; possible fetal compromise
→ Deliver if ≥32 weeks; if <32 weeks, senior obstetrician review with immediate decision-making; consider corticosteroids if preterm; umbilical artery Doppler; continuous CTG monitoring
BPP 0–2 — strongly suggests fetal compromise
→ Emergency delivery regardless of gestational age unless extreme prematurity; immediate senior obstetrics review; neonatal resuscitation team on standby; explain to patient and document
Interpretation bands for the Fetal BPP. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Manning FA et al. Fetal assessment based on fetal biophysical profile scoring. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1980;136(6):787–795.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.