The aim is to induce contractions and monitor the fetus to check for heart rate abnormalities using a cardiotocograph.
[4][5] A positive CST indicates high risk of fetal death due to hypoxia[3] and is a contraindication to labor.
This is a procedure that relies on endogenous release of oxytocin following nipple stimulation, and is conducted by the patient.
One nipple is massaged gently through clothing until a contraction begins, or for a maximum of 2 minutes.
[8][4] If adequate contractions (at least 3 in 10 minutes) cannot be achieved with nipple stimulation, an oxytocin challenge test may be performed.