What are Foetal movements?

What are Foetal movements?

The first trimester is a period during which the foetus develops astoundingly fast, it is still very tiny and too far nested in the cushioning comfort of your womb for you to feel any of its movements. Though some women feel the slight twitches and flits during the fourth month, it’s usually between 20 to 24 weeks of pregnancy that most moms-to-be experience tiny sensations in the uterus. Doctors call these foetal movements. If you have not started to feel them by the fifth month, it’s advisable to visit your doctor and get an ultrasound.

As your pregnancy advances, these movements become more varied in pattern, but predictable, stronger and noticeable. Apart from the kicks and punches that can be strong enough to jolt you upright, you may also feel a series of fluttering movements. When you do, you know your little one is having a fit of hiccups!

Do not compare your baby’s movements with that of your pregnant friend’s baby’s or even with that of your earlier child. Babies are individuals just like us and each one has its own activity rhythm. You should become familiar with the unique type and pattern of your baby’s foetal movements, and be able to recognise the periods of quiet or movement.

As the baby continuously grows, its movements may feel different, but should occur throughout the course of the day.