Around 18 weeks of pregnancy, the baby will begin to move (Public Health Network)
After 18 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus has taken shape, and fetal movements become noticeable. These movements are the baby's wriggling within the mother's uterus. By 20 weeks, the number of fetal movements within a 12-hour period is approximately 200.
The baby has two daily activity peaks: one between 7-9 a.m. and another between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Fetal movements are relatively less frequent during other times.
Therefore, expectant mothers can monitor fetal movements for one hour each in the morning, afternoon, or evening. This helps them stay informed about their baby's activity levels. It's also important to keep a daily record of these movements. A suitable time for monitoring is before bedtime. Consistency is key—try to measure movements at the same time each day.
How can expectant mothers monitor fetal movements themselves?
1. Record the number of movements and the time it takes for the baby to move 10 times.
Expectant mothers can begin monitoring fetal movements after waking up. Once the baby has moved 10 times, further testing is unnecessary. For some mothers, the baby may reach 10 movements within an hour, while others may not achieve this count until bedtime. If fetal movements have not reached 10 by 11 PM, it is advisable to seek examination at a reputable obstetrics and gynecology hospital.
2. Pregnant women can record the number of fetal movements each day.
Begin recording after waking up each morning. Make a note whenever you feel fetal movement. Once 10 movements are recorded, no further tracking is needed. If fewer than 10 movements are detected by 8 PM, it is advisable to seek examination at an obstetrics and gynecology hospital.
3. Expectant mothers can track fetal movements at consistent times each day.
Test for movements for three hours daily—ideally once in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
4. Expectant mothers can record fetal movements and the time required after meals.
Between 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM after dinner, measure the number of fetal movements and calculate the time needed for 10 movements. If it takes over 3 hours and fewer than 10 movements occur, seek examination at a reputable obstetrics and gynecology hospital.
Important Note: If the baby exhibits rapid movement followed by a sudden cessation, this may indicate an abnormality. Expectant mothers should take this seriously. Carefully observe the baby's daily movements daily. If any abnormalities are detected, seek immediate examination at a reputable obstetrics and gynecology hospital.