What does a reactive non-stress test indicate?

A reactive non-stress test indicates a normal fetal heart rate response, which suggests fetal well-being. This test measures the fetus's heart rate in response to its movements; an increase in heart rate of 15 beats per minute for at least 15 seconds within a 20-minute monitoring period is considered reactive. This response is a positive sign that the fetal autonomic nervous system is functioning well and that the fetus is receiving adequate oxygen.

In the context of fetal assessments, a reactive non-stress test is reassuring and often used to monitor high-risk pregnancies or to follow up on concerns regarding fetal health. It indicates that the fetus is healthy, actively moving, and not in distress, which is the key reason for this answer being the correct choice.