Understanding Your Baby’s Movements During Pregnancy

Feeling your baby move during pregnancy is one of the most exciting aspects of being an expectant mother. Baby movements not only signify life but are also an important indicator of the baby’s well-being. Throughout pregnancy, monitoring these movements helps mothers feel connected to their babies while ensuring their health is on track.

In this post, we will explore what normal baby movements feel like, the importance of monitoring them, and what to do if you experience reduced or abnormal movements.

What Are Normal Baby Movements During Pregnancy?

Most expectant mothers begin feeling their baby’s movements between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. If it’s your first pregnancy, you might not notice these movements until you’re over 20 weeks. However, mothers who have been pregnant before may feel movements as early as 16 weeks. These movements are often described as kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls.

As your baby grows, their movement patterns will change. Typically, babies are more active in the afternoon and evening, although there are also periods of rest and sleep. These sleep periods usually last between 20 and 40 minutes, but rarely longer than 90 minutes. Even during these rest periods, it’s important to remember that the baby should be moving throughout the day and up until labor.

As you near the 32nd week of pregnancy, the type of movement might change, but the frequency should remain the same. It’s also possible that, if you’re busy or distracted, you may not notice all of the baby’s movements. However, it’s important to consistently feel your baby’s movements, even during labor.

(Use this “Advanced Pregnancy Calculator” to track important pregnancy milestones.)

Why Are Baby Movements Important?

Monitoring your baby’s movements throughout your pregnancy is essential because it can offer reassurance about their well-being. A sudden decrease in movements or a significant change in their pattern can be one of the first indicators that something may be wrong. If you notice reduced movements, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider, such as your gynecologist or midwife, immediately for an assessment.

How Many Movements Are Normal?

There is no specific number of movements that are considered normal during pregnancy. The key is to be familiar with your baby’s unique movement pattern. A decrease in frequency or a change in how the baby moves is what you should watch for.

Factors That Can Affect Baby Movements

Several factors may influence how frequently you feel your baby move. Here are some common causes:

• Activity Level: When you’re busy or moving around, you may be less aware of your baby’s movements.
• Placenta Position: If your placenta is located at the front of your uterus (anterior placenta), it may be harder for you to feel the movements.
• Baby’s Position: The baby’s position in the womb doesn’t affect movement, but if the baby’s back is towards your abdomen, movements might feel less distinct.

What Can Cause Reduced Movements?

A reduction in your baby’s movements could be due to several factors. Sometimes, certain medications, such as strong pain relievers or sedatives, may pass into the baby’s circulation and temporarily reduce their activity. Smoking and alcohol can also affect baby movements and fetal health. In rare cases, a decrease in movement could indicate an issue, such as fetal distress or a condition affecting the baby’s muscles or nerves.

What Should I Do If I’m Unsure About My Baby’s Movements?

If you’re uncertain whether your baby’s movements have decreased, try lying down on your left side and paying close attention for two hours. During this time, you should feel at least 10 separate movements. If you don’t, or if you’re still concerned, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What to Do If Your Baby’s Movements Reduce?

If you experience a reduction or change in your baby’s movements, it’s crucial to act quickly. Do not wait until the next day to seek advice, especially before going to bed. Home kits to check the baby’s heartbeat are not recommended because they can provide false reassurance.

Here’s what you should do depending on the stage of your pregnancy:

Less Than 24 Weeks Pregnant

Before reaching 24 weeks, it is common to start feeling baby movements between 18 to 20 weeks. If by 24 weeks you haven’t felt any movement, you should consult your healthcare provider. Your provider will check the baby’s heartbeat, and if needed, perform an ultrasound scan to check the baby’s development. In some cases, you may be referred to a specialist.

Between 24 and 28 Weeks Pregnant

If you are in this stage of pregnancy and notice reduced movements, it’s recommended to contact your gynecologist. A thorough antenatal check-up will be conducted, including measurements of your uterus and monitoring the baby’s heartbeat. If there are concerns about your baby’s growth, an ultrasound may be scheduled.

Over 28 Weeks Pregnant

From 28 weeks onwards, reduced or changed movements warrant immediate attention. Your healthcare provider will perform a full antenatal check, including continuous monitoring of the baby’s heartbeat. They will observe the baby’s heart rate over a period to check for normal activity. If any concerns arise, an ultrasound scan might be scheduled to assess the baby’s growth and amniotic fluid.

Most women who experience reduced movements go on to have normal pregnancies. However, if issues persist, your healthcare provider may discuss early delivery for the safety of the baby.

What Should I Do If My Baby’s Movements Are Reduced Again?

Even after you’ve been assessed and reassured by your healthcare provider, it’s important to remain vigilant about your baby’s movements. If you experience another episode of reduced movements, contact your gynecologist or midwife immediately. Never hesitate to seek help, no matter how many times you feel that movements have decreased.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I feel my baby move?

Every pregnancy is different, but most women start feeling regular movements after 20 weeks. As your pregnancy progresses, you should feel the baby move more frequently, particularly during quiet moments when you’re resting.

2. Should I be worried if I don’t feel my baby move every hour?

Not necessarily. Babies go through sleep cycles, which means there will be times when they are less active. However, if you notice a significant change in movement patterns, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

3. Can stress affect my baby’s movements?

Stress and anxiety can impact your perception of your baby’s movements. Taking time to relax and focus on your baby can help you notice movements better. However, always consult a doctor if you’re worried.

4. What role does fetal monitoring play in tracking baby movements?

Fetal heart rate monitoring is a useful tool during antenatal visits to check the baby’s well-being. Continuous fetal monitoring may be recommended if there are concerns about the baby’s health.

Conclusion

Monitoring your baby’s movements during pregnancy is a key part of ensuring a healthy pregnancy. By staying attuned to your baby’s unique movement patterns and acting promptly if there are any changes, you can ensure the best possible outcomes for both you and your baby.

If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Your midwife or gynecologist is there to support you throughout this journey, providing reassurance and guidance when needed.