Monitoring fetal movements is an ancient method used to assess the health of a pregnancy. Even today, fetal movements remain one of the most reliable tools available to mothers for assessing the baby’s condition in the womb, especially when ultrasound is not available.
Movement is an important indicator of fetal health. It requires the normal development of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. These systems are essential for healthy movement, but without an adequate supply of oxygen, movement may also be reduced.
In other words, normal fetal movements reflect the proper development of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, as well as a good oxygen supply; which depends on the mother. As pregnancy progresses and the baby develops, fetal movements generally become stronger and easier to feel.
When Can Fetal Movements Be Felt?
This depends on several factors; the number of previous pregnancies, the location of the placenta, and natural individual differences. Some women feel movements earlier, while others may notice them later.
The fetus begins to move around the 10th week of pregnancy. Most women start to feel these movements around the 20th week, though some may sense them a few weeks earlier.
At first, the sensations may feel like gentle flutters or fish swimming in water. As the pregnancy progresses, the movements become more noticeable, and it’s even possible to see a hand or foot pushing out, or a rotation inside the womb.
Multiple Fetal Movements. Weeks 29 - 38
There are different types of movements: limb movements (hands or feet that feel like kicks or pushes), and whole-body movements (turning or shifting from side to side).
The amniotic fluid helps the fetus move freely in the uterus, even as it grows larger.
An anterior placenta, the baby’s position, or the mother’s body weight may cause a delay in feeling movements. In such cases, movements might be felt later around week 22 or even 24.
If you have reached week 24 and still haven’t felt any fetal movements, it is recommended to have an ultrasound scan.
Monitoring Fetal Movements
Every baby has its own unique movement pattern, just like people after birth. Some are more active, some move more at night, and others might wake you up from your afternoon nap.
While there are general medical guidelines, it’s also important to pay attention to your baby’s individual rhythm.
This means that when you want to assess a change in movements, you should consider both the general recommendations and your baby’s usual activity. For example, if your baby is normally very active but suddenly moves less, even if it still fits within the “normal” range, it may still indicate a problem.
It’s always better to check. As they say: when in doubt, there is no doubt.
It is generally recommended to begin monitoring fetal movements from around week 28.
Two Common Approaches to Checking Fetal Movements
- 1-3 movements within half an hour, in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
- 2-10 movements over a two-hour period during the day.
If fetal movements do not meet these parameters, it is important to pause and observe carefully.
Many women, especially during later pregnancies, are busy throughout the day and may not pay close attention to movements. However, it is important to take a few moments each day to connect with your baby and assess their activity.
How to Encourage Fetal Movement
Each baby responds differently to stimuli.
Some people believe that sugar always stimulates fetal movement, but this is not always true. Many mothers learn what best stimulates their own baby it might be music, drinking water, something sweet, or simply deep breathing.
Remember that fetuses also sleep.
It’s recommended to lie on your left side to increase blood flow to the uterus and breathe deeply to improve oxygen supply.
If you don’t feel any movement, try again later your baby might just be in a sleep cycle, which can last 20 - 40 minutes.
If you still don’t feel movement and are concerned, contact your clinic or the maternity emergency department to be examined.
Warning Signs
Be aware of warning signs such as a noticeable decrease in movement or a change in the quality of movement. For example, if your baby’s movements are usually free and active but start to feel weaker or more restricted, it’s important to get checked.
If you notice that your baby is not moving as usual; for example, less movement in the morning, take time to observe and, if needed, seek medical advice.
Always remember: there are general guidelines, but every baby has their own characteristic movement pattern, and both should be considered.
When in doubt, there is no doubt.
*Disclaimer
The recommendations for using essential oils do not constitute professional medical advice and are based on natural medicine traditions and literature. Essential oils are not medicines, and their use is the sole responsibility of the user. Please consult a doctor or certified therapist before use, especially if you have any health concerns.
Bila Harel Goren
Experienced Aromatherapist and Doula
Certified in Infant Massage and Massage for Pregnant Women