Feeling your baby move and kick inside the womb is one of the most exciting experiences of pregnancy, but it can also cause questions and concerns for new parents. Knowing what to expect and when can help ease your mind and make your pregnancy journey even more enjoyable.
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When do you start feeling your baby move?
Most women feel their baby’s movements, known as quickening, between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. However, some women may experience it earlier, around week 14, while others may feel it later, around week 26. The position of the placenta and the number of pregnancies you have had can also affect when you feel the first movements.
What do baby kicks feel like?
Baby kicks can feel like flutters, waves, twitches, nudges, or even hunger pangs. Some women may describe it as a bubble bursting, while others feel like they are on a roller coaster ride. As your pregnancy progresses, the movements will become stronger and more noticeable, eventually turning into choreographed movements, punches, and kicks.
How often should my baby move in utero?
There is no set number of movements you should feel each day, as every baby is unique. However, you should feel movement every day in the third trimester, starting around week 28 and continuing until delivery. It is important to get to know what is normal for your baby, which typically becomes clearer between week 24 and week 28 of pregnancy.
Are there times when the baby will kick and move more often?
You may find that your baby is more active when you have settled down for the night. During the day, the motion of your body can lull your baby to sleep, and you may not notice the movements as much. When you are relaxed and lying down, especially on one side, you are more likely to feel the fetal movements. After having a snack or a small glass of juice, the surge in your blood sugar may give your baby a rush of energy and prompt some kicks and wriggles.
When you are nervous, adrenaline can have the same effect and increase the baby’s activity level. Finally, if you sense occasional little flutters of faint but rhythmic tics that last for a minute to an hour, your baby probably has a harmless and perfectly normal case of the hiccups.
What does a super active baby in the womb mean?
It is important to note that a sudden increase in fetal movements in the third trimester, which is different from the baby’s normal movement pattern, should be brought to your healthcare provider’s attention. Otherwise, baby kicks, even those that are frequent and strong, are considered a normal and healthy part of fetal development.
Try not to compare your baby’s movements with those of others or with your own previous pregnancies, as each baby is unique, and the rhythms and patterns of their activity will vary.
Related: Baby Shakes in the Womb: Understanding the Mystery Behind Womb Movements
Kick counts
During the third trimester of your pregnancy (starting at week 28 until delivery), it is important to keep track of your baby’s movements, commonly known as “kick counts.” Follow these guidelines and recommendations for an effective monitoring process:
Frequency: Allocate dedicated quiet moments at least twice a day to conduct kick counts. Plan one session in the morning and another in the evening.
Procedure: Note the time and commence counting. Consider all types of movements, including kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls. Stop counting when you reach a total of 10 fetal movements, and record the time it took to reach that count.
Expected results: Typically, counting 10 movements of any kind within a time frame of one to two hours is considered normal. However, there may be instances where it takes longer or, conversely, you feel the required 10 movements sooner.
Insufficient movement: If you have not experienced 10 movements within two hours or the usual timeframe for your baby, take action. Attempt common methods such as eating a small snack, gently poking your belly, or changing positions during your kick counting session. If these efforts are unsuccessful, promptly contact your healthcare provider. They will advise you on whether you should visit their office or the hospital maternity ward for further evaluation. Remember, although reduced activity does not always indicate a problem, it can occasionally be a cause for concern and require monitoring.
Importance as due date approaches: Regular kick counts become increasingly important as you approach your due date. During the ninth month, it is recommended to conduct kick counts at least twice a day or more. Notify your healthcare provider or seek medical attention if you notice a sudden decrease or increase in fetal movement.
Important note: It is crucial to avoid relying on handheld monitors, at-home Dopplers, or phone apps to assess your baby’s heartbeat or well-being. These tools are not as accurate or reliable as the fetal monitors and ultrasounds used by medical professionals to ensure your baby’s optimal health.
In conclusion, feeling your baby move and kick inside the womb is a wonderful experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. Knowing what to expect when it comes to fetal movement and when to contact your healthcare provider can help you have a smooth and enjoyable pregnancy journey.
