Reduced baby (fetal) movements

It is not true that babies move less towards the end of pregnancy.

You should continue to feel your baby move right up to the time you go into labour and whilst you are in labour too.

What are fetal movements

From approximately 18 to 20 weeks of your pregnancy you may start to notice tiny sensations in your uterus (womb). These sensations can initially feel like a ‘fluttering, swishing or popping sensation, and are the result of your baby moving around. Midwives and obstetricians will refer to these sensations as ‘fetal movements’. As your pregnancy progresses and your baby becomes bigger and stronger, their movements will become more noticeable and more frequent, up to around 32 weeks of pregnancy when the number of movements will stay about the same. Your baby may also get hiccups which can feel like rhythmic jerking movements.

During both day and night your baby will have sleep periods that usually last between 20 and 40 minutes. Your baby will not usually move during these sleep periods. You are less likely to notice your baby’s movements when you are active or busy.

Due to your baby continually growing throughout the pregnancy there will be less room in your uterus. The baby’s movements may feel different as you get nearer your due date, but they should still be at frequent intervals throughout the course of the day. You should continue to feel your baby move right up to the time you go into labour. Your baby should move during labour too.

You should become familiar with the pattern of fetal movements for your baby, in order that you can recognise periods of the day when your baby has been quiet and not moved as much or when you are expecting them to move.

If you notice a reduction in baby’s movements what should you do?

During your pregnancy, feeling your baby move gives you reassurance of your baby’s wellbeing. If you notice your baby is moving less than usual or if you have noticed a change in the pattern of movements, it may sometimes be a sign that your baby is unwell.

If you are concerned about your baby’s movements please contact the maternity assessment unit: Clinic 23 on 01223 217217. You can call this number at any time of the day or night to speak to a midwife for advice.

What will happen if you telephone the maternity assessment unit: clinic 23?

Please never hesitate to contact clinic 23 (01223 217217) if you are unsure about your baby’s movements we are here to reassure and support you.

Do not use any hand-held monitors, Doppler’s or phone apps to check your baby’s heartbeat. Even if you detect a heartbeat this does not mean the baby is well.