When Can You Feel Baby Moving?
For many pregnant women, feeling their baby move is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy. During the second trimester, your baby begins to move and you will start to feel these movements. Knowing when baby movements start and how to detect them can help you enjoy this moment.
When Does Baby Movement Start?
Baby movements usually start around 16-25 weeks after conception. For most women, the earliest movements are like butterflies or flutters in the tummy. You may also feel like your baby is pushing against the sides of your tummy. As your baby grows, these movements will become more frequent and easier to detect.
How Early Can You Feel Baby Movements?
It is possible to feel your baby move as early as 13 weeks. This is known as quickening and is when you feel flutters or tumbles in your abdomen. However, it is more common to begin feeling baby movements during the second trimester, typically between 16-25 weeks.
Tips for Detection of Baby Movements
It can take some time to feel your baby move or kick. Here are a few tips to help you detect these movements:
- Relax: Make sure you are in a comfortable position. Taking deep breaths can help you relax and feel your baby’s movements.
- Pay attention to your body: Listen to your body to determine if you are feeling anything different during the day or night.
- Eat something sweet: Eating something sweet or drinking juice can give your baby energy and may prompt the baby to move.
- Talk to your baby: Bonding with your baby by talking, singing or playing music can also make him/her move.
When to Call Your Doctor
If you don’t feel any movements by week 25, contact your doctor or midwife as soon as possible. They will check your baby’s well-being and measure the movements. This is important because it helps to detect any potential problems with the baby’s growth or development.
Overall, it is normal for your baby to start moving around week 16-25. However, this is just an estimate, as it can vary from one woman to another depending on the stage of pregnancy and the individual’s body. Remember, if you don’t feel any movements by week 25, call your doctor or midwife to check up on your baby’s well-being. Enjoy the precious moments of feeling your baby move!