The antenatal detection of NC by color Doppler sonography can be accomplished in nearly all cases. Once this method has been learned, the presence or absence of NC can be quickly and reliably established. It may be possible to avoid intrapartum complications through the prompt antenatal detection of NC. Problems can arise when this diagnosis is communicated to the patient. Insufficient or improper counseling can provoke confusion and anxiety in many patients. For this reason, the pregnant woman should understand that NC is a frequent find­ing, even as an isolated condition. When antepartum FHR ab­normalities are noted (e.g., unexplained variable decelera­tions), color Doppler can be used to determine the possible cause. The high accuracy of color Doppler in the diagnosis of NC can aid in the prevention of serious perinatal and intrapartum complications in many cases. When other abnormalities have been excluded, these patients can be managed further by in­tensive surveillance, which may include use of the biophysical (ABCD) profile.