Reduced 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 ‘flutterings’ 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, his/her movements will become more noticeable. Your baby may also get hiccups which can feel like rhythmic jerking movements.

Due to your baby continually growing throughout the pregnancy there will less room in your uterus. The baby’s movements may feel different but they should still be at frequent intervals throughout the course of the day.

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 him/her to move.

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

It may be that you have been busy; for example at work, shopping, or caring for other family members, and have therefore not noticed your baby’s movements. We would advise that you lie on your left side and focus on your baby’s movements for two hours.

If during the two hour period you feel ten or more separate movements from your baby there is no need for further follow up. You should make a conscious effort to monitor your baby’s movements throughout the rest of the day and the following few days to ensure your baby has resumed his/her normal pattern. However, if you have any concerns or are unsure please contact a midwife for advice as detailed below.

If you do not feel ten or more separate movements within these two hours you must immediately contact the maternity assessment unit: Clinic 23 on 01223 217217.

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.