Moms Should Know! When Your Baby’s Movements Mean You Need to See a Doctor

Moms Should Know! When Your Baby’s Movements Mean You Need to See a Doctor
      Feeling Your Baby Move — one of the most heartwarming moments during pregnancy. These gentle kicks, rolls, and stretches are signs that your baby is growing and developing — and they’re more than just movement. They’re also important indicators of your baby’s well-being.

Why is tracking fetal movement important?
      Counting your baby's kicks can help you monitor their health. A decrease in fetal movement could indicate reduced oxygen or a potential complication, such as a knot in the umbilical cord or low amniotic fluid. In some cases, decreased movement may occur 12–48 hours before serious complications or even stillbirth.



When & how to count baby’s kicks?

• Start at 28 weeks of pregnancy (third trimester).
  
• Every kick, roll, jab, or stretch counts as one movement.
  
• Your baby should move at least 4 times in 1 hour.
  
• If fewer than 4 movements are felt, continue counting for another hour.
  
• If fewer than 4 movements are still felt after 2 hours, seek medical attention immediately.
• Try to count at the same time each day, preferably when the baby is usually active (e.g., after meals).
  

Why might baby move less?

• Your baby might be sleeping (sleep cycles last 20–40 minutes).
• Certain medications (e.g., antihistamines or muscle relaxants) can cause drowsiness.
• Possible complications like restricted growth, low amniotic fluid, or umbilical cord compression.

When to see a doctor immediately :

• Before 28 weeks: No movement for more than 12 hours.
• After 28 weeks: Fewer than 3–4 movements per hour for 2 consecutive hours.

      Baby’s movements are a sign of development and awareness. Babies may respond to music, your voice, or even a bedtime story with a tiny kick — it’s a beautiful way they start connecting with the world. If you notice any unusual changes in fetal movement, don't wait — get checked. It's always better to be safe, for both mom and baby.


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