Patient's question:
Patient Gender:Female
Detailed Medical Condition and Purpose of Consultation:
Hello! I am 6.5 months pregnant. Before 6 months, the fetal movements were frequent and vigorous, as if the baby was kicking and punching inside my stomach. Now, the movements are still frequent, but the amplitude is smaller, as if the hands and feet are not moving as intensely. Sometimes I feel the baby is turning around inside the stomach. What could be the reason for this? Is it normal? I had an ultrasound at 5.5 months, and everything was normal.
Doctor's answer:
Hello: At 20 weeks of pregnancy, most women can feel fetal movement, which is particularly noticeable at night. The period from 29 to 38 weeks is the most frequent time for fetal movement, which slightly decreases as the due date approaches. In cases of postterm pregnancy, fetal movement may decrease.Fetal movement is generally about 3 to 5 times per hour, with approximately 30 to 40 movements in a 12-hour period. After 22 weeks of pregnancy, if you notice a sudden decrease or disappearance of fetal movement that does not return within 24 hours, or if fetal movement is less than 10 times per hour after 28 weeks, you should contact your primary healthcare provider.
A decrease in fetal movement does not necessarily indicate fetal distress. Sometimes, certain positions of the fetus inside the uterus may also be a cause. Ultrasound can provide a clear answer. Since your ultrasound at five months was normal, you can rest assured and continue with regular check-ups.