When Does the Baby Start to Move?
If you’re pregnant, one of the most exciting things you can experience is feeling your baby move. Depending on several factors, such as the position of your placenta, you can feel your baby move as soon as 16 weeks gestation.
Factors That Affect Baby Movement
- Maternal Weight – Your weight can play a role in when and how strong the baby’s movements can be felt. If you’re on the leaner side, the movements can be felt earlier. If you’re on the heavier side, the movements may not be felt until a few weeks later.
- Position and Placement of the Placenta – The distance between the placenta and the uterus wall can affect when the baby’s movements can be felt. If the placenta is close to the walls, the baby’s movements may be felt earlier. However, if the placenta is more distant, the baby’s movements can be delayed.
- Previous Pregnancies – If you’ve already gone through a pregnancy before, you may be able to feel the movements earlier because your body is already familiar with the process.
Signs of Baby Movement
Once you do start feeling the movement of your baby, identify when your baby is the most active. While there’s no definite answer, you’ll probably feel the baby move more when you’re relaxed or at rest.
Common signs of movement can feel like small flutters, gas bubbles or rolling motions. As the baby gets bigger, the movements will become stronger and more noticeable.
By the end of the third trimester, you may even be able to feel baby hiccups. It’s a sign that your baby is growing and developing properly.
It’s important to report any signs of decreased baby movement to your healthcare provider immediately. It could be a sign of complications.
Conclusion
The time when you can feel your baby move can differ from pregnancy to pregnancy. With time, the movements will become more noticeable. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider if you are concerned about the amount of baby movement you can feel.