It’s a wonderful feeling when you start to feel movement as your baby develops in your womb.  You might start to feel your baby moving around the 18-week mark of your pregnancy. If this is your first pregnancy, it might not happen until about 20 weeks, or from your second pregnancy, as early as 16 weeks!  The first movement you feel may be a fluttering or butterfly sensation. You may also feel a swishing, rolling or tumbling sensation.

When your baby becomes bigger, movements normally become more distinct and you will more easily feel kicking and elbowing (especially towards the end of the pregnancy).  Babies tend to move more at certain times of day – and guess what – they may be more active while you sleep, and sleep while you’re awake!

Usually, unborn babies sleep up to 90 minutes at a time, and they don’t move when they’re asleep.  You may not always feel your baby’s movements if you are busy and are not paying attention, however you should try to learn your baby’s movement pattern as it is different for each baby.

Babies’ movements should become more frequent in the third trimester. There are no set number of movements a baby should have, but if you notice anything unusual, seek out medical help as soon as possible.  If you haven’t felt any movement from your baby by 24 weeks, or if you think your baby’s movements have decreased in strength or number – do not wait, contact your midwife or doctor immediately.

Your doctor or midwife will check your baby’s heart rate and movements. It is important that whenever you are concerned about your baby’s movements to contact your doctor or midwife (even if you have seen them previously about the same issue).

Call POGS on (08) 6270 0123 or email: reception@pogs.com.au if you need to make an appointment.