Fetal movement during pregnancy

Article

Dec 1, 2021

Different women start to feel their child's first movements differently depending on their pregnancy experience. It is vital for mums to monitor the pattern of their child's movement inside their wombs.

As your due date approaches, your child will most probably settle into a head-down position.

What to expect throughout your pregnancy

16-20 Weeks

Women who have already had a child tend to feel their child's first fetal movement at around 16-18 weeks
First-time mums are more likely to feel fetal movement at around 18-20 weeks because they don't recognize the sensation at first
Women describe the feeling as being like fluttering wings or air bubbles moving around in your tummy

20-26 Weeks

Your child's fetal movement will become stronger and you will start to feel punches, kicks and somersaults
You will gradually become used to your child's fetal movement and their particular pattern
You may notice rhythmic twitches now and again when your child has a fit of hiccups
Your child may jump when they hear a sudden loud noise
Some are more active than others and all go through quiet and active period

27-40 Weeks

Your child's fetal movement will peak between weeks 26 and 32
You may feel large roll-over movements that take your breath away for a moment
As your child becomes more cramped in your womb, their fetal movement will feel slower
As your due date approaches, your child will most probably settle into a head-down position and you may feel uncomfortable kicks to your ribs.

When to call the midwife