Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of experiences: one of the most exciting milestones is feeling your baby move for the first time.
Quickening pregnancy is also known as fetal movements and may feel like butterflies fluttering in your belly or tiny kicks from within.
Quickening can be a reassuring sign that your baby is growing healthily, but it can also cause anxiety if you don’t know what to expect.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about quickening and how to identify your baby’s first movements.
When Do You Feel Quickening?
Quickening usually starts between 16 to 25 weeks of gestation, although some women can experience them as early as 13 weeks.
First-time mothers may not feel quickening until about 20 weeks, while women who have had babies before may notice movements sooner.
The timing of quickening can also depend on several factors, such as where your placenta is situated, your body weight, and the position of your baby.
Overall, don’t worry if you haven’t felt any movements yet, as every pregnancy is different.
What Does Quickening Feel Like?
The sensation of quickening can vary from woman to woman, and even between pregnancies. Some describe it as tiny flutters, while others feel like they are being poked or tickled from the inside.
As your baby grows, the movements become more noticeable and stronger. You may also be able to sense the rhythm of your baby’s movements, such as when they are awake or sleeping.
It’s important to note that quickening should not be painful; if you experience any sharp or severe pain, contact your doctor immediately.
How Many Fetal Movements Should You Feel?
As your pregnancy progresses, you should feel your baby move more frequently. By the third trimester, you should feel about 10 movements within 2 hours of active periods, such as after meals or when you’re lying down.
However, every baby has their own pattern of movement, so don’t be alarmed if your baby moves less than ten times in two hours, as long as they are still moving.
It’s always a good idea to keep track of your baby’s movements and report any changes to your healthcare provider.
What Affects Quickening?
Several factors can influence how and when you feel your baby move. For instance, if you are carrying multiples, you may feel quickening earlier and more frequently.
If your baby is positioned towards your back, you may feel less movement than if they are facing your belly. External factors like noise, stress or caffeine can also impact your baby’s movement patterns.
If you’re worried about decreased quickening or sudden changes in your baby’s movements, speak to your healthcare provider and arrange for a fetal movement assessment.
Quickening is a milestone in pregnancy that brings joy and reassurance to parents-to-be. Feeling your baby move for the first time is a unique experience, and it’s important to understand what to expect and when.
Quickening typically begins around 16 to 25 weeks of gestation and feels like flutters or kicks. By the third trimester, you should be feeling about 10 movements in active periods, and you must monitor your baby’s movements regularly.
If you ever have any concerns about your baby’s movements, speak to your healthcare provider, and they will be happy to provide guidance and support.
