Movement Matters 

Your baby’s movements are important! They tell you that your baby is doing well. You can start to feel your baby move between 16 and 24 weeks (no matter where your placenta is located.) 

These movements might be felt as a flutter, swish, roll or kick. They can be felt all the way through pregnancy and labor. Regular movements are a sign that your baby is well. 

It is important to get to know your baby’s movement pattern. One way to do this is to find a quiet place and sit or lie down. Relax and focus on your baby’s movements for a period of time. You can count the number as well as the strength and types of movements you feel.  Your baby will have sleep and wake cycles so you will notice that sometimes baby is more active during certain times of the day. Choosing a time when they are active is helpful when you are learning about their patterns. 

Sometimes 10 movements in 2 hours are given as a guideline, but research is limited about a specific number or time limit. Every baby is different and so getting to know your baby’s unique movement pattern is what is important. 

After you know your baby’s pattern of movements, if you are unsure if baby’s movements have changed, spend some time again feeling your baby’s movements. 

If you notice a change and feel decreased movements or no movement, contact your doctor or midwife right away. This is important. You are not wasting their time and they want to know. It may signal that your baby is unwell. 

Your care provider may ask you questions about your baby’s movements, and they may ask you to come in to be monitored. Please don’t hesitate to call!

Movements Matter - Tommy's - YouTube        

Adapted from Movements Matter by the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand accessed @ Movements Matter | The Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth (stillbirthcre.org.au)

Reference:

Daly, L. M. (2018). Care of pregnant women with decreased fetal movements: Update of a clinical practice guideline for Australia and New Zealand. Australia & New Zealand Obstetric Gynecologic , 58: 463-468.