Feeling Baby Move: When it Happens and What if Feels Like
When you are pregnant, it can seem like forever waiting to feel your baby move for the first time. You may feel some stomach gas or little twitches, not really sure if it's your baby you feel or not; You'll be so excited when you realize it's definitely the baby kicking!
When will I feel the baby move?
Most women feel their baby's first kicks between 16-22 weeks of pregnancy. Some women feel their baby kick earlier than that and some a little later.
First-time moms usually don't notice their baby kicking until later; This is probably because they are just not sure what they are feeling or what to look out for.
What does it feel like?
Baby's first kicks are often described differently depending on the woman. It may even feel differently from one pregnancy to another. Women have described baby's first kicks as feeling like a butterfly in their stomach, something wiggling in their belly, slight twitches, or popcorn.
In the beginning, you may feel the baby kicking several times in one day and then not feel the baby kick at all the next; This is normal.
Your baby's movements may seem sporadic at first but eventually, your baby will get into a recognizable pattern of activity. Your baby will probably sleep whenever you are up and moving around and kick when you are relaxing, so don't worry if you've been active and haven't felt the baby move all day. Your movement rocks the baby to sleep; When you are resting, the baby finally has the room to move around.
Observing Kicks
If you haven't felt the baby kick in awhile, You probably just haven't noticed it; That's especially true if you've been up and about during the day.
If you're worried about your baby's lack of movement, drink some juice, eat a snack, and lay down. This will give the baby a jump start of energy and encourage him or her to move around.
Your doctor or midwife may ask you to do “kick counts” during the end of your pregnancy. You should try to count 10 movements within 2 hours. Again, it's best to do this after you've had something to eat and while you are laying down in the evening.
If you notice a definite change in your baby's kicks and movements, call your doctor or midwife. They will most likely ask to see you and confirm that all is well with your baby.
Vanessa Pruitt
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