Which condition is commonly monitored using a nonstress test during pregnancy?

A nonstress test (NST) is specifically designed to assess fetal well-being by monitoring the fetal heart rate in response to its movements. This test evaluates the heart's response during periods of fetal activity, and an increase in heart rate indicates that the fetus is thriving and receiving adequate oxygen. The NST is particularly useful in situations where there are concerns about the fetus, such as decreased fetal movement, suspected growth restriction, or other conditions that may impair fetal health.

In the context of pregnancy, conditions like gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and hypertension may influence how care providers monitor the mother and fetus, but they are not the primary focus of monitoring through an NST. Instead, the test serves a targeted purpose in ensuring the fetus's well-being, making it a common and essential practice in obstetric care. This focus on fetal health is why monitoring through a nonstress test is specifically associated with assessing fetal well-being.