Fetal Movement: How is Baby Doing?
A guideline for you to use at home to help us ensure the well-being of your baby.
Your perception of fetal movement will usually begin in the second trimester of pregnancy between 16 and 20 weeks. Initially, this movement is very brief and sporadic. It may feel like “air moving through your intestines” or a “flutter.” First-time mothers or pregnancies that have placentas located in the front of the uterus have a harder time feeling movement early.
Fetal movement is a significant indicator of fetal well-being; however, there is no consensus regarding the appropriate amount of fetal movement. At 28 weeks of pregnancy, we want you to begin monitoring the frequency of your baby’s movements. Your baby will have a sleep-wake cycle just like you do. Oftentimes, your baby will be most active at nighttime. You will be the best judge of your baby’s usual rate of activity. On average you should feel your baby move many times per hour. If you haven’t noticed any movement in two to four hours, it may be because you are having a busy day. Just take a few minutes to sit and have a bite to eat or move your uterus a bit to “wake baby up.” If you still have NO movement after this time, you should call the office to be evaluated. If your baby has a significantly decreased amount of activity, you should also call the office for further evaluation.
Your perception of fetal movement will usually begin in the second trimester of pregnancy between 16 and 20 weeks. Initially, this movement is very brief and sporadic. It may feel like “air moving through your intestines” or a “flutter.” First-time mothers or pregnancies that have placentas located in the front of the uterus have a harder time feeling movement early.
Fetal movement is a significant indicator of fetal well-being; however, there is no consensus regarding the appropriate amount of fetal movement. At 28 weeks of pregnancy, we want you to begin monitoring the frequency of your baby’s movements. Your baby will have a sleep-wake cycle just like you do. Oftentimes, your baby will be most active at nighttime. You will be the best judge of your baby’s usual rate of activity. On average you should feel your baby move many times per hour. If you haven’t noticed any movement in two to four hours, it may be because you are having a busy day. Just take a few minutes to sit and have a bite to eat or move your uterus a bit to “wake baby up.” If you still have NO movement after this time, you should call the office to be evaluated. If your baby has a significantly decreased amount of activity, you should also call the office for further evaluation.
