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Why are my baby’s movements important?
Feeling your baby move is a sign they are well. If your baby moves less or if you notice a change this can sometimes be an important warning sign that a baby is unwell. If you get the right treatment and care as soon as you can this could save your baby’s life.
How often should my baby move?
There is no set number of normal movements you should be feeling – every baby is different. It is important that you get to know your baby’s normal kicks and movements.
From 18-24 weeks on you should feel the baby move more and more. After 32 weeks, the movements will stay roughly the same until you give birth.
- It is not true that babies move less towards the end of pregnancy.
- You should continue to feel your baby move right up to the time you go into labour and during labour.
Contact the maternity unit immediately if you think your baby’s movements have slowed down, stopped or changed. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week .
- Do not put off calling until the next day to see what happens.
- Do not worry about phoning. It is important for your doctors and midwives to know if your baby’s movements have slowed down or stopped.
Can I use a home doppler to check on my baby?
Please do not use any hand-held monitors, dopplers or phone apps to check your baby’s heartbeat. Even if you think you detect a heartbeat, this does not mean your baby is well because it might be your own heartbeat. It is important that you call for advice as you need to be checked by a healthcare professional.
For further information regarding baby’s movements please click here to access the Tommy’s website. The leaflet below can also be accessed in a variety of languages from the Tommy’s Website
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