Patient's question:
I am currently 23 weeks pregnant and experiencing very frequent contractions, sometimes one every 20 minutes, and sometimes one every hour. I'm not sure if this is normal? Additionally, the baby's movements are also very frequent, sometimes there's a movement within a few seconds, and this can last for 2 or 3 minutes, and they are very strong. I don't know if this is also normal? The ultrasound showed no problems. I would appreciate it if experts and experienced mothers could provide an answer! Thank you!First follow-up question: When listening to the fetal heartbeat, it hurts slightly under the abdomen with just a little effort, and the ultrasound also did not find any issues with the uterine wall or tumors. The doctor said my uterus is quite sensitive. What should I pay attention to?
Doctor's answer:
Starting from the 28th week of pregnancy, expectant mothers should count fetal movements, which are generally 3-5 times per hour. The counting method usually involves timing 1 hour each at fixed times in the morning, afternoon, and evening. If more than 3 movements are counted per hour, it indicates that the fetus is doing well. Alternatively, the sum of the movements counted in the morning, afternoon, and evening can be multiplied by 4 to determine the total movements in 12 hours. If the total fetal movements in 12 hours exceed 30, it reflects that the fetus is doing well. If the number is less than 20, it suggests that the fetus is abnormal. If the fetal movements are fewer than 10, it indicates that the fetus may be experiencing intrauterine hypoxia.