A biophysical profile, or BPP, is a simple, painless procedure that combines ultrasound imaging with a nonstress test to assess the well-being of a fetus (developing baby) in the uterus. A biophysical profile is a way to check on overall fetal health. It consists of two painless, noninvasive tests: fetal monitoring and ultrasound. Typically, it takes about 30 to 70 minutes to complete. The biophysical profile helps practitioners observe the fetus’s heart rate, breathing, movement, muscle tone, and the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus in the uterus. A BPP may be scheduled once or twice a week, and may be combined with your obstetrician visits when possible.