Your baby’s movements will commence somewhere between 16 and 22 weeks of pregnancy and the time varies based on whether:

• it is a first or a subsequent child,
• the placenta is on the front or the back wall of the uterus

As the pregnancy goes on you will be asked three questions at each visit:

1. Are you feeling well?
   This relates to whether you have any incidental illness, have a problem involving the pregnancy with pain or bleeding or anything else that may be of concern. 
2. Is the baby well?
   This relates to whether your baby is moving. 
3. Do you have any questions, problems or worries?
   Use your appointments to discuss any questions or concerns you have about your pregnancy and how you are feeling.

 

Regular movements by twenty-six weeks

During your pregnancy the movements will become stronger and more established. Movements are usually quite established by twenty-six weeks, though the child will have the occasional very quiet day. By twenty-eight weeks your baby should be moving at least ten times every day.

While some babies are particularly active, others are less so. Some women are much more aware of the movements than others. If the placenta is on the front wall then you will feel the movements a little later and a little more softly. Some women can feel the fetal breathing movements and in some women, the baby can roll over without the mother being aware of it. Ultimately the mother has to be her own “benchmark”.

Nearer to term, the movements will become more subtle and your baby is more likely to squirm rather than kick. Nonetheless, the movements should never cease completely.