Fetal movement during pregnancy: the norm, for how long, frequent, strong. large fruit

Pregnancy- This is a physiological process in which a new organism develops in the uterus, resulting from fertilization. Pregnancy lasts an average of 40 weeks (10 obstetric months).

In the intrauterine development of a child, two periods are distinguished:

1. Embryonic(up to 8 weeks of pregnancy inclusive). At this time, the embryo is called an embryo and acquires the features characteristic of a person;
2. Fetal(from 9 weeks to birth). At this time, the embryo is called a fetus.

The growth of a child, the formation of his organs and systems proceeds naturally in different periods of intrauterine development, which is subject to the genetic code embedded in the germ cells and fixed in the process of human evolution.

Embryo development in the first obstetric month (1-4 weeks)

First week (1-7 days)

Pregnancy starts from the moment fertilization- the fusion of a mature male cell (sperm) and a female egg. This process usually occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube. After a few hours, the fertilized egg begins to divide exponentially and descends through the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity (this journey takes up to five days).

As a result of division a multicellular organism, which looks like a blackberry (in Latin "morus"), which is why the embryo at this stage is called morula. Approximately on the 7th day, the morula is introduced into the wall of the uterus (implantation). The villi of the outer cells of the embryo are connected to the blood vessels of the uterus, subsequently the placenta is formed from them. Other outer cells of the morula give rise to the development of the umbilical cord and membranes. After some time, various tissues and organs of the fetus will develop from the internal cells.

Information At the time of implantation, a woman may have small bleeding from the genital tract. Such secretions are physiological and do not require treatment.

Second week (8-14 days)

The outer cells of the morula grow tightly into the lining of the uterus. At the fetus the formation of the umbilical cord, placenta, and neural tube from which the fetal nervous system subsequently develops.

Third week (15-21 days)

The third week of pregnancy is a difficult and important period.. At that time important organs and systems begin to form fetus: the beginnings of the respiratory, digestive, circulatory, nervous and excretory systems appear. In the place where the fetal head will soon appear, a wide plate is formed, which will give rise to the brain. On day 21, the baby's heart begins to beat.

Fourth week (22-28 days)

this week fetal organ laying continues. The rudiments of the intestines, liver, kidneys and lungs are already present. The heart begins to work more intensively and pumps more and more blood through the circulatory system.

From the beginning of the fourth week in the embryo body wrinkles appear, and appears rudiment of the spine(chord).

Ends by day 25 neural tube formation.

By the end of the week (approximately 27-28 days) muscular system, spine are formed, which divides the embryo into two symmetrical halves, and upper and lower limbs.

During this period begins formation of pits on the head, which will later become the eyes of the fetus.

Development of the embryo in the second obstetric month (5-8 weeks)

Fifth week (29-35 days)

During this period, the embryo weighs about 0.4 grams, length 1.5-2.5 mm.

The formation of the following organs and systems begins:

1. Digestive system: liver and pancreas;
2. Respiratory system: larynx, trachea, lungs;
3. Circulatory system;
4. reproductive system: precursors of germ cells are formed;
5. sense organs: eye and inner ear formation continues;
6. Nervous system: the formation of brain regions begins.

At that time a faint umbilical cord appears. The formation of limbs continues, the first rudiments of nails appear.

On the face upper lip and nasal cavities formed.

Sixth week (36-42 days)

Length embryo during this period is about 4-5mm.

Starts in the sixth week placenta formation. At this time, it is just beginning to function, the blood circulation between it and the embryo has not yet been formed.

Continues formation of the brain and its parts. At the sixth week, when performing an encephalogram, it is already possible to fix signals from the fetal brain.

Begins facial muscle formation. The eyes of the fetus are already more pronounced and uncovered by the eyelids, which are just beginning to form.

During this period, they begin upper limbs change: they lengthen and the rudiments of hands and fingers appear. The lower limbs are still in their infancy.

Changes in important organs:

1. Heart. The division into chambers is completed: ventricles and atria;
2. urinary system. Primary kidneys have formed, the development of the ureters begins;
3. Digestive system. The formation of the sections of the gastrointestinal tract begins: the stomach, small and large intestines. By this period, the liver and pancreas had practically completed their development;

Seventh week (43-49 days)

The seventh week is significant in that the final the formation of the umbilical cord is completed and uteroplacental circulation is established. Now the breathing and nutrition of the fetus will be carried out due to the circulation of blood through the vessels of the umbilical cord and placenta.

The embryo is still bent in an arcuate manner; there is a small tail on the pelvic part of the body. The size of the head is at least the entire half of the embryo. The length from the crown to the sacrum grows by the end of the week up to 13-15 mm.

Continues upper limb development. The fingers are clearly visible, but their separation from each other has not yet occurred. The child begins to perform spontaneous hand movements in response to stimuli.

Fine eyes formed, already covered with eyelids that protect them from drying out. The child can open his mouth.

There is a laying of the nasal fold and nose, two paired elevations are formed on the sides of the head, from which they will begin to develop ear shells.

Intensive development of the brain and its parts.

Eighth week (50-56 days)

The body of the embryo begins to straighten, length from the crown of the head to the coccyx is 15 mm at the beginning of the week and 20-21 mm on day 56.

Continues formation of important organs and systems Key words: digestive system, heart, lungs, brain, urinary system, reproductive system (boys develop testicles). The organs of hearing are developing.

By the end of the eighth week the face of the child becomes familiar to a person: well-defined eyes, covered with eyelids, nose, auricles, lip formation ends.

Intensive growth of the head, upper and lower horses is noted. particularities, ossification of the long bones of the arms and legs and the skull develops. Fingers are clearly visible, there is no skin membrane between them.

Additionally The eighth week ends the embryonic period of development and begins the fetal. The embryo from this time is called the fetus.

Fetal development in the third obstetric month (9-12 weeks)

Ninth week (57-63 days)

At the beginning of the ninth week coccygeal-parietal size fetus is about 22 mm, by the end of the week - 31 mm.

going on improvement of the vessels of the placenta which improves uteroplacental blood flow.

Development of the musculoskeletal system continues. The process of ossification begins, the joints of the toes and hands are formed. The fetus begins to make active movements, can squeeze fingers. The head is lowered, the chin is closely pressed to the chest.

Changes occur in the cardiovascular system. The heart makes up to 150 beats per minute and pumps blood through its blood vessels. The composition of blood is still very different from the blood of an adult: it consists only of red blood cells.

Continues further growth and development of the brain, structures of the cerebellum are formed.

The organs of the endocrine system are intensively developing in particular, the adrenal glands, which produce important hormones.

Improved cartilage tissue: auricles, cartilages of the larynx, vocal cords are being formed.

Tenth week (64-70 days)

By the end of the tenth week fruit length from coccyx to crown is 35-40 mm.

Buttocks begin to develop, the previously existing tail disappears. The fetus is in the uterus in a fairly free position in a half-bent state.

The development of the nervous system continues. Now the fetus performs not only chaotic movements, but also reflex ones in response to a stimulus. When accidentally touching the walls of the uterus, the child makes movements in response: he turns his head, bends or unbends his arms and legs, pushes himself to the side. The size of the fetus is still very small, and the woman cannot yet feel these movements.

The sucking reflex develops, the child begins reflex movements of the lips.

Diaphragm development completes, which will take an active part in breathing.

Eleventh week (71-77 days)

By the end of this week coccygeal-parietal size fetus increases to 4-5 cm.

The body of the fetus remains disproportionate: small body, large head, long arms and short legs, bent at all joints and pressed to the stomach.

The placenta has already reached sufficient development and copes with its functions: it provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removes carbon dioxide and metabolic products.

Further formation of the fetal eye occurs: at this time, the iris develops, which will later determine the color of the eyes. The eyes are well developed, semi-lidded or wide open.

Twelfth week (78-84 days)

Coccygeal-parietal size fetus is 50-60 mm.

Goes distinctly the development of the genital organs according to the female or male type.

going on further improvement of the digestive system. The intestines are elongated and fit in loops, as in an adult. Its periodic contractions begin - peristalsis. The fetus begins to make swallowing movements, swallowing amniotic fluid.

The development and improvement of the fetal nervous system continues. The brain is small, but exactly repeats all the structures of the brain of an adult. The cerebral hemispheres and other departments are well developed. Reflex movements are improved: the fetus can squeeze and unclench its fingers into a fist, grabs the thumb and actively sucks it.

In the blood of the fetus not only erythrocytes are already present, but the production of white blood cells - leukocytes - begins.

At this time the child single respiratory movements begin to register. Before birth, the fetus cannot breathe, its lungs do not function, but it makes rhythmic movements of the chest, imitating breathing.

By the end of the week, the fetus eyebrows and eyelashes appear, the neck is clearly visible.

Fetal development in the fourth obstetric month (13-16 weeks)

13 weeks (85-91 days)

Coccygeal-parietal size by the end of the week is 70-75 mm. The proportions of the body begin to change: the upper and lower limbs and torso lengthen, the size of the head is no longer so large in relation to the body.

Improvement of the digestive and nervous systems continues. Germs of milk teeth begin to appear under the upper and lower jaws.

The face is fully formed, clearly visible auricles, nose and eyes (completely closed for centuries).

14 weeks (92-98 days)

Coccygeal-parietal size by the end of the fourteenth week increases up to 8-9 cm. The proportions of the body continue to change to more familiar ones. The forehead, nose, cheeks and chin are well defined on the face. The first hair appears on the head (very thin and colorless). The surface of the body is covered with fluffy hairs, which retain the lubrication of the skin and thus perform protective functions.

Improving the musculoskeletal system of the fetus. Bones become stronger. Increased motor activity: the fetus can roll over, bend, make swimming movements.

The development of the kidneys, bladder and ureters is completed. The kidneys begin to excrete urine, which mixes with the amniotic fluid.

: pancreatic cells begin to work, producing insulin, and pituitary cells.

There are changes in the genitals. In boys, the prostate gland is formed, in girls, the ovaries migrate into the pelvic cavity. At the fourteenth week, with a good sensitive ultrasound machine, it is already possible to determine the sex of the child.

Fifteenth week (99-105 days)

Coccygeal-parietal size of the fetus is about 10 cm, fruit weight - 70-75 grams. The head still remains quite large, but the growth of the arms, legs and torso begins to outpace it.

Improves the circulatory system. In a child in the fourth month, it is already possible to determine the blood type and Rh factor. Blood vessels (veins, arteries, capillaries) grow in length, their walls become stronger.

The production of original feces (meconium) begins. This is due to the ingestion of amniotic fluid, which enters the stomach, then into the intestines and fills it.

Fully formed fingers and toes, they have an individual pattern.

Sixteenth week (106-112 days)

The weight of the fetus increases to 100 grams, the coccygeal-parietal size - up to 12 cm.

By the end of the sixteenth week, the fetus is already fully formed., he has all the organs and systems. The kidneys work actively, every hour a small amount of urine is released into the amniotic fluid.

Fetal skin is very thin, subcutaneous fatty tissue is practically absent, so blood vessels are visible through the skin. The skin looks bright red, covered with downy hairs and grease. Eyebrows and eyelashes are well defined. Nails are formed, but they cover only the edge of the nail phalanx.

Mimic muscles are formed, and the fetus begins to "grimace": a frown of eyebrows is observed, a semblance of a smile.

Fetal development in the fifth obstetric month (17-20 weeks)

Seventeenth week (113-119 days)

The weight of the fetus is 120-150 grams, the coccygeal-parietal size is 14-15 cm.

The skin remains very thin, but under it, subcutaneous fatty tissue begins to develop. The development of milk teeth, which are covered with dentin, continues. Under them, the germs of permanent teeth begin to form.

Reaction to sound stimuli. From this week, you can say for sure that the child began to hear. When strong sharp sounds appear, the fetus begins to move actively.

Fetal position changes. The head is raised and is almost vertical. The arms are bent at the elbow joints, the fingers are clenched into a fist almost all the time. Periodically, the child begins to suck his thumb.

Becomes distinct heartbeat. From now on, the doctor can listen to him with a stethoscope.

Eighteenth week (120-126 days)

The weight of the child is about 200 grams, length - up to 20 cm.

The formation of sleep and wakefulness begins. Most of the time the fetus sleeps, movements stop for this time.

At this time, a woman may already begin to feel the movement of the child, especially with repeated pregnancies. The first movements are felt as gentle jolts. A woman can feel more active movements during excitement, stress, which affects the emotional state of the child. At this time, the norm is about ten episodes of fetal movement per day.

Nineteenth week (127-133 days)

The weight of the child increases to 250-300 grams, body length - up to 22-23 cm. The proportions of the body change: the head lags behind the body in growth, arms and legs begin to lengthen.

Movements become more frequent and noticeable. They can be felt not only by the woman herself, but also by other people, putting their hand to their stomach. Primigravida at this time can only begin to feel movements.

Improves the endocrine system: the pancreas, pituitary, adrenals, gonads, thyroid and parathyroid glands are actively functioning.

The composition of the blood has changed: in addition to erythrocytes and leukocytes, there are monocytes and lymphocytes in the blood. The spleen begins to take part in hematopoiesis.

Twentieth week (134-140 days)

Body length increases to 23-25 ​​cm, weight - up to 340 grams.

Fetal skin is still thin, covered with a protective lubricant and fluffy hairs that can persist until the very birth. Intensively develops subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Well formed eyes, at twenty weeks the blink reflex begins to appear.

Improved movement coordination: the child confidently brings his finger to his mouth and begins to suck it. Expressed facial expressions: the fetus can close his eyes, smile, frown.

This week, all women feel the movements regardless of the number of pregnancies. Movement activity changes throughout the day. When irritants appear (loud sounds, stuffy room), the child begins to move very violently and actively.

Fetal development in the sixth obstetric month (21-24 weeks)

Twenty-first week (141-147 days)

Body weight grows up to 380 grams, fetal length - up to 27 cm.

The subcutaneous tissue layer increases. The skin of the fetus is wrinkled, with many folds.

Fetal movements become more and more active and tangible. The fetus moves freely in the uterine cavity: lies down with its head or buttocks, across the uterus. It can pull the umbilical cord, push off with hands and feet from the walls of the uterus.

Changes in sleep and wake patterns. Now the fetus spends less time sleeping (16-20 hours).

Twenty-second week (148-154 days)

At week 22, the size of the fetus increases to 28 cm, weight - up to 450-500 grams. The size of the head becomes proportional to the trunk and limbs. The legs are almost all the time in a bent state.

Fully formed fetal spine: it has all the vertebrae, ligaments and joints. The process of strengthening bones continues.

Improvement of the fetal nervous system: the brain already contains all the nerve cells (neurons) and has a mass of about 100 grams. The child begins to take an interest in his body: he feels his face, arms, legs, tilts his head, brings his fingers to his mouth.

Significantly enlarged heart improving the functionality of the cardiovascular system.

Twenty-third week (155-161 days)

The body length of the fetus is 28-30 cm, weight - about 500 grams. The pigment begins to be synthesized in the skin, as a result, the skin acquires a bright red color. The subcutaneous fatty tissue is still quite thin, as a result, the child looks very thin and wrinkled. Lubrication covers the entire skin, is more abundant in the folds of the body (elbow, axillary, inguinal, and other folds).

The development of the internal genital organs continues: in boys - the scrotum, in girls - the ovaries.

Increased respiratory rate up to 50-60 times per minute.

The swallowing reflex is still well developed: the child constantly swallows amniotic fluid with particles of a protective lubricant of the skin. The liquid part of the amniotic fluid is absorbed into the blood, a thick green-black substance (meconium) remains in the intestines. Normally, the intestines should not be emptied until the baby is born. Sometimes swallowing water causes hiccups in the fetus, a woman can feel it in the form of rhythmic movements for several minutes.

Twenty-fourth week (162-168 days)

By the end of this week, the weight of the fetus increases to 600 grams, body length - up to 30-32 cm.

The movements are getting stronger and clearer. The fetus occupies almost the entire place in the uterus, but can still change position and roll over. Muscles grow strongly.

By the end of the sixth month, the child has well-developed sense organs. Vision begins to function. If a bright light falls on the woman's stomach, the fetus begins to turn away, tightly closes the eyelids. Hearing is well developed. The fetus determines for itself pleasant and unpleasant sounds and reacts to them in different ways. With pleasant sounds, the child behaves calmly, his movements become calm and measured. With unpleasant sounds, it begins to freeze or, conversely, moves very actively.

An emotional bond is established between mother and child. If a woman experiences negative emotions (fear, anxiety, longing), the child begins to experience similar feelings.

Fetal development in the seventh obstetric month (25-28 weeks)

Twenty-fifth week (169-175 days)

The length of the fetus is 30-34 cm, body weight increases to 650-700 grams. The skin becomes elastic, the number and severity of folds decreases due to the accumulation of subcutaneous fatty tissue. The skin remains thin with a large number of capillaries, giving it a red color.

The face has a familiar human appearance: eyes, eyelids, eyebrows, eyelashes, cheeks, auricles are well expressed. The cartilages of the ears are still thin and soft, their curves and curls are not fully formed.

Bone marrow develops, which takes on a major role in hematopoiesis. The strengthening of the bones of the fetus continues.

There are important processes in the maturation of the lungs: small elements of lung tissue (alveoli) are formed. Before the birth of the child, they are without air and resemble deflated balloons, which straighten out only after the first cry of the newborn. From the 25th week, the alveoli begin to produce a special substance (surfactant) necessary to maintain their shape.

Twenty-sixth week (176-182 days)

The length of the fetus is about 35 cm, the weight increases to 750-760 grams. The growth of muscle tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue continues. Bones are strengthened and permanent teeth continue to develop.

The formation of genital organs continues. In boys, the testicles begin to descend into the scrotum (the process lasts 3-4 weeks). In girls, the formation of the external genitalia and vagina is completed.

Improved sense organs. The child develops a sense of smell (smell).

Twenty-seventh week (183-189 days)

Weight increases to 850 grams, body length - up to 37 cm.

Organs of the endocrine system are actively functioning in particular the pancreas, pituitary gland and thyroid gland.

The fetus is quite active, makes various movements freely inside the uterus.

From the twenty-seventh week of the child individual metabolism begins to form.

Twenty-eighth week (190-196 days)

The weight of the child increases to 950 grams, body length - 38 cm.

By this age the fetus becomes practically viable. In the absence of organ pathology, a child with good care and treatment can survive.

Subcutaneous adipose tissue continues to accumulate. The skin is still red in color, vellus hair begins to gradually fall out, remaining only on the back and shoulders. Eyebrows, eyelashes, hair on the head become darker. The child begins to open his eyes frequently. The cartilages of the nose and ears remain soft. The nails do not yet reach the edge of the nail phalanx.

This week starts over active functioning of one of the hemispheres of the brain. If the right hemisphere becomes active, then the child becomes left-handed, if the left, then right-handedness develops.

Fetal development in the eighth month (29-32 weeks)

Twenty-ninth week (197-203 days)

The weight of the fetus is about 1200 grams, growth increases to 39 cm.

The child has already grown enough and takes up almost all the space in the uterus. The movements are not so chaotic. The movements are manifested in the form of periodic pushes with the legs and arms. The fetus begins to take a definite position in the uterus: head or buttocks down.

All organ systems continue to improve. The kidneys excrete up to 500 ml of urine per day. The load on the cardiovascular system increases. The circulation of the fetus is still significantly different from the circulation of the newborn.

Thirtieth week (204-210 days)

Body weight increases to 1300-1350 grams, growth remains about the same - about 38-39 cm.

Constant accumulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue, skin folds are straightened. The child adapts to the lack of space and assumes a certain position: curled up, arms and legs crossed. The skin still has a bright color, the amount of lubrication and vellus hair is reduced.

Continues development of alveoli and production of surfactant. The lungs prepare for the birth of the baby and the start of breathing.

The development of the brain continues brain, the number of convolutions and the area of ​​the cortex increase.

Thirty-first week (211-217 days)

The weight of the child is about 1500-1700 grams, growth increases to 40 cm.

The child's sleep and wake patterns change. Sleep still takes a long time, during this time there is no motor activity of the fetus. During wakefulness, the child actively moves and pushes.

Fully formed eyes. During sleep, the child closes his eyes, during wakefulness, the eyes are open, periodically the child blinks. The color of the iris in all children is the same (blue), then after birth it begins to change. The fetus reacts to bright light by constriction or dilation of the pupil.

Increases the size of the brain. Now its volume is about 25% of the volume of the brain of an adult.

Thirty-second week (218-224 days)

The height of the child is about 42 cm, weight - 1700-1800 grams.

Continued accumulation of subcutaneous fat, in connection with which, the skin becomes lighter, there are practically no folds on it.

Improved internal organs: organs of the endocrine system intensively secrete hormones, surfactant accumulates in the lungs.

The fetus produces a special hormone, which promotes the formation of estrogen in the mother's body, as a result, the mammary glands begin to prepare for the production of milk.

Fetal development in the ninth month (33-36 weeks)

Thirty-third week (225-231 days)

The weight of the fetus increases to 1900-2000 grams, growth is about 43-44 cm.

Skin becomes brighter and smoother, the layer of adipose tissue increases. Vellus hair is more and more wiped, the layer of protective lubricant, on the contrary, increases. The nails grow to the edge of the nail phalanx.

The child becomes more and more crowded in the uterine cavity, so his movements become more rare, but strong. The position of the fetus is fixed (head or buttocks down), the likelihood that the child will roll over after this period is extremely small.

The work of internal organs is improving: the mass of the heart increases, the formation of the alveoli is almost completed, the tone of the blood vessels increases, the brain is fully formed.

Thirty-fourth week (232-238 days)

The weight of the child ranges from 2000 to 2500 grams, height is about 44-45 cm.

The baby is now in a stable position in the uterus. The bones of the skull are soft and mobile thanks to the fontanelles, which can close only a few months after childbirth.

The hair on the head grows intensively and take on a certain color. However, hair color may change after childbirth.

Significant strengthening of bones, in connection with this, the fetus begins to take calcium from the mother's body (a woman at this time may notice the appearance of seizures).

Baby swallows amniotic fluid all the time, thereby stimulating the gastrointestinal tract and the functioning of the kidneys, which secrete at least 600 ml of clear urine per day.

Thirty-fifth week (239-245 days)

Every day the child adds 25-35 grams. Weight in this period can vary greatly and by the end of the week is 2200-2700 grams. Height increases to 46 cm.

All the internal organs of the child continue to improve, preparing the body for the upcoming extrauterine existence.

Fatty tissue is intensively deposited, the child becomes more well-fed. The amount of vellus hair is greatly reduced. The nails have already reached the tips of the nail phalanges.

A sufficient amount of meconium has already accumulated in the intestines of the fetus, which normally should depart 6-7 hours after childbirth.

Thirty-sixth week (246-252 days)

The weight of the child varies greatly and can range from 2000 to 3000 grams, height - within 46-48 cm

The fetus already has well-developed subcutaneous adipose tissue, skin color becomes light, wrinkles and folds completely disappear.

The baby takes a certain position in the uterus: more often he lies upside down (less often, legs or buttocks, in some cases, transversely), the head is bent, the chin is pressed to the chest, arms and legs are pressed to the body.

Skull bones, unlike other bones, remain soft, with cracks (fontanelles), which will allow the baby's head to be more pliable when passing through the birth canal.

All organs and systems are fully developed for the existence of a child outside the womb.

Fetal development in the tenth obstetric month

Thirty-seventh week (254-259 days)

The height of the child increases to 48-49 cm, the weight can fluctuate significantly. The skin has become lighter and thicker, the fat layer increases by 14-15 grams per day every day.

Cartilages of the nose and ears become tighter and more elastic.

Fully formed and mature lungs, the alveoli contain the necessary amount of surfactant for the breath of the newborn.

Completion of the digestive system: In the stomach and intestines, there are contractions necessary to push food through (peristalsis).

Thirty-eighth week (260-266 days)

The weight and height of the child varies greatly.

The fetus is fully mature and ready to be born. Outwardly, the child looks like a full-term newborn. The skin is light, fatty tissue is sufficiently developed, vellus hair is practically absent.

Thirty-ninth week (267-273 days)

Usually two weeks before delivery fetus starts to drop clinging to the bones of the pelvis. The child has already reached full maturity. The placenta begins to gradually grow old and metabolic processes worsen in it.

The mass of the fetus increases significantly (30-35 grams per day). The proportions of the body change completely: the chest and shoulder girdle are well developed, the belly is rounded, and the limbs are long.

Well developed sense organs: the child picks up all sounds, sees bright colors, can focus vision, taste buds are developed.

Fortieth week (274-280 days)

All indicators of fetal development correspond to the neonatal born. The child is completely ready for childbirth. Weight can vary significantly: from 250 to 4000 and above grams.

The uterus begins to contract periodically(), which is manifested by aching pains in the lower abdomen. The cervix opens slightly, and the fetal head is pressed closer to the pelvic cavity.

The bones of the skull are still soft and pliable, which allows the baby's head to change shape and easier to pass through the birth canal.

Fetal development by week of pregnancy - Video

Every expectant mother happily follows her feelings during pregnancy, watches how her body changes and what happens inside. And, of course, looking forward to the moment when the baby moves.

When should this happen according to the norm, what should be the sensations and whether the movements are always the same or different in number or multiple pregnancy have their own differences? Let's figure it out.

When does fetal movement begin during pregnancy?

The first reflex movements of the embryo are already observed at a period of 8-9 weeks, but they, of course, are not noticeable to the mother, since the fetus is still tiny and does not touch the walls of the uterus.

As it grows, by about the 16th week of pregnancy, the fetus is already quite large, its movements are already conscious, it reacts to external stimuli (light, loud sound), touches its face with its hands. If the expectant mother is thin or her sensitivity threshold is high, and especially if this is not the first pregnancy, then she can feel the first movements of the child in those moments when he touches the walls of the uterus.

Not the last role is played by the placenta. If it is located on the front wall of the uterus, then the movements of the baby will become obvious to you later. But do not be afraid if your term is longer, and you do not feel anything. The period of the first movements from 16 to 24 weeks is considered normal, so everything is ahead of you, and it’s too early to panic.

There are completely different descriptions that pregnant women give to this process. Someone compares it to the fluttering of the wings of a butterfly or moth, to someone it resembles gurgling, stroking or tickling, sometimes even compared to intestinal motility.

Whatever the feeling, in any case it causes only joy and marks the beginning of a new stage in the relationship between the mother and the unborn child: this is no longer just a stomach, but a child.

How often do you feel movement: normal

The frequency of movements varies depending on the duration of pregnancy and many other individual characteristics of its course, as well as on the temperament of the baby himself and the way of life that the expectant mother leads.

The fetus is in constant motion, unless, of course, sleeping. Average statistics show that at 20 weeks the child makes up to 200 movements during the day, at 26-32 weeks - up to 600 movements, then motor activity begins to decrease due to an increase in the size of the fetus. Naturally, a woman does not feel most of these movements.

It is also important for the activity of the child and the time of day: usually the kids are more frisky in the evening and at night. Also, their activity is affected by the well-being and mood of the mother. If a woman experiences stress or works too much, then the child calms down, and as soon as she lies down to rest, he immediately begins to tumble. The fetus also revives after eating, especially after sweets. Extraneous sounds do not go unnoticed for him, for example, loud laughter, music, thunder, bright flashes of light.

And, of course, the position of the mother's body. Pregnant women are forbidden to lie on their backs, as this compresses the artery that feeds the umbilical cord with oxygen, so the baby immediately shows signs of discontent in case of discomfort. It is also undesirable to lie on the left side for a long time or sit cross-legged, as these postures cause discomfort to the child.

If the baby kicks too actively, and at the same time you feel pain, then it is better to change your position. If this continues for a long time or has become a habit, then you should tell the doctor about it in order to exclude fetal hypoxia (oxygen starvation). The doctor will conduct the necessary examinations, listen to the child's heartbeat, and possibly prescribe a CTG diagnostic using a special device that measures the relationship between the frequency of movements and cardiac activity.

Also in the third trimester, you will definitely need to keep a calendar of fetal movements. On average, when a child is awake, a woman can count up to 10-15 pushes per hour. Normally, movements can be completely absent for 3-4 hours: do not worry, the baby is just sleeping. Different methods are used to calculate perturbations:

If you notice that your baby does not move much, or you do not feel his movements for more than 6 hours, then immediately contact your obstetrician.

When can you hear fetal movements during a second, repeated pregnancy?

There is no standard specific timing for fetal movement during a second pregnancy. Everything happens in the same way as in the first, that is, individually. It’s just that a more experienced mother can understand earlier that these are movements, and not think that this is the work of the intestines.

So if it’s already 20 weeks, and you haven’t felt anything, then you don’t need to worry, everything is still ahead. But if there is no sensation after 24 weeks, tell your midwife immediately.

Fetal movements during multiple pregnancy

If nature has made you happy with two babies, then, of course, you will feel their movements more intensely.

Usually, for the first time, twins make themselves felt at week 14, although it happens later. The movements of one of the babies, which is attached to the front wall of the uterus, are felt more strongly.

When counting shocks, you will need to multiply the norm figure by 2.

Active, strong fetal movement

The baby's biorhythm changes depending on the duration of pregnancy and the regimen of the mother. Already after 28 weeks, the child actively moves, thus communicating with the mother. That is, you can, for example, determine by too active pushes that the baby is uncomfortable, and change position.

Normally, the movement of the child should not cause you pain. If they are painful and sharp, then this is an alarming sign: the child does not have enough oxygen. Do not hide this from the doctor, as you may not inform the child. And vice versa, if the baby, after 28 weeks of pregnancy, shows little activity, moves rarely, weakly and sluggishly, then you also need to consult a doctor. Although, it must be remembered that if the mother moves a lot and walks in the fresh air, then the child likes swaying in the stomach, and at the same time he is calm, moves less. But when you decide to lie down and rest, he may begin to tumble.

And the touch of the mother or father on the stomach can also cause a crumb response.

The most active child basically becomes in the first half of the third trimester, since there is still enough space in the uterus, there is room to roam. Closer to the birth, the movements of the baby will become more noticeable, but not so frequent.

Fetal movement before childbirth

The nature and frequency of fetal movements changes.

Firstly, this is due to tightness in the womb, because the child has grown up, and the uterus is no longer growing. Secondly, nature is so conceived that the child is gaining strength, because hard work awaits him - the path through the birth canal.

But this does not mean that the baby will constantly sleep. He should move, the number of movements should be normal (in one hour of time, your baby should normally move once or twice). At this stage, the movements of the baby will be directed down into the pelvic region, as close as possible to the cervix, in order to take a comfortable position for themselves. Mom will feel relieved at the same time, because now it will become easier to breathe than it was before. If the baby sank, then the birth is coming soon.

Most of the children one or two weeks before the birth change their tactics of behavior: periods of complete calm are abruptly replaced by periods of excessive activity of the same duration. And a day or two before giving birth, there may not be any movements at all. This is a sign: it's time to go to the hospital. Although, it happens the other way around: the baby is too active. Do not worry, because he is just as nervous as you are, and in this way he can show his anxiety before traveling to this world.

Especially for - Anzhelika Golyana

Update: October 2018

All expectant mothers look forward to fetal movements during pregnancy, this is the first contact with the child, which makes the maternal instinct turn on, if this has not happened before. The movements of the unborn baby not only bring great joy to future parents, but help them suspect a pathology and immediately contact an obstetrician. When they start, how many perturbations are normal should be of interest to all pregnant women.

Why does the fetus move?

The movements of a little man in the womb are necessary, they speak of his growth and development. The baby begins to move already in the first trimester, at about 7 to 8 weeks. By week 10, he has swallowing movements, he can change the trajectory of his movements and touch the walls of the amniotic bladder. But the size of the embryo is still insufficient, it only floats freely in the amniotic fluid, extremely rarely “collides” with the uterine walls, so the woman still does not feel anything.

Starting from the 16th week, the fetus is already sensitive to sounds, which is manifested by an active motor reaction. From the 18th week, the future baby begins to touch the umbilical cord with his hands, knows how to squeeze, unclench his fingers, touches his face.

Therefore, the fetus worries in the mother's stomach, which in turn worries the woman when exposed to external factors that are unpleasant for the baby:

• strong, unpleasant, loud sounds;
• feeling of discomfort in the womb, for example, the mother's hunger;
• stress experienced by the mother (due to the release of adrenaline, the vessels, including those in the placenta, are reduced, the blood supply worsens);
• oxygen starvation (due to active movements, the placenta is stimulated, its blood supply is increased, which provides the child with additional oxygen).

In addition, if a woman has taken an uncomfortable position when large vessels are squeezed, the child experiences a lack of oxygen and also becomes active.

First movements

Each woman feels the first movement of the fetus differently at different times. When this happens depends on several factors:

• gestational age;
• first or second, etc. pregnancy;
• time of day (usually in the evening or at night);
• mother's complexion (thin or full);
• Times of Day;
• variant of placenta attachment;
• Lifestyle;
• individual sensitivity (some feel from 15 to 16 weeks);
• mother's behavior (physically active women simply do not notice movements).

According to statistics, the first fetal movement during the first pregnancy is felt by a pregnant woman at 20 weeks. And with repeated bearing of the fetus, the terms of stirring are reduced to 18 weeks.

But everything is individual, even for an individual woman, the second, third and subsequent pregnancy proceeds every time in a new way. If a woman during her second pregnancy began to feel fetal movement at 19 weeks, then during the third pregnancy these terms may change (feel sooner or later).

Movement rate

The rate of fetal movements depends on the gestational age of the expectant mother. The baby is constantly moving, but of course, a woman cannot feel all his movements.

• At a period of 20 - 22 weeks, the fetus makes up to 200 movements per day,
• but by 27 - 32 weeks he is already doing about 600 movements. It is characteristic that with the beginning of the third trimester (32 weeks), the amount decreases, which is explained by its weight (the fetus is already quite large) and it becomes cramped in the uterus. There are no longer “large” movements (turns and coups in the uterus) and the baby can only produce “small” arms and legs.
• After the 28th week, the average amount is 8 - 10 per hour. The exception is the periods of sleep of the child, which is equal to 3 - 4 hours - at this time the baby does not make active movements. The expectant mother should remember certain cycles of the child's activity. The greatest activity is observed from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m., and the decrease in activity or the so-called state of rest falls on the period from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m.
• By 32 weeks, the fetus takes the final position, as a rule, it is the head to the small pelvis (longitudinal position, head presentation). But the transverse position or breech presentation is not excluded. Mom should not despair, in order to correct such provisions, the doctor will always prescribe special gymnastics, which contribute to the rollover of the fetus and its acceptance of the “correct” position - longitudinal, head to the small pelvis.

If the child has taken the “correct” position, that is, head down, then the pregnant woman will feel movements in the upper abdomen (the child “beats” with her legs). In the case of a breech presentation, the movements will be felt below, at the bosom.

Changing the intensity of the movements

If the baby in the womb feels good and comfortable, and the mother does not experience any external or internal stimuli, then the movements are rhythmic and smooth. Otherwise, the nature of the movements changes dramatically, which should alert the woman and requires the advice of an obstetrician.

As a rule, a woman notes the "increased" activity of the baby when she is calm and resting. Conversely, many mothers are afraid that during her vigorous activity the child does not move at all. Such a phenomenon is easily explained. When a woman is at rest, she listens more carefully to her feelings and carefully notes the movements of the child. When she is busy, she does not have time to be distracted from business and she simply does not notice that the baby is moving. In order to dispel her doubts (the child is ill, he is dying), the pregnant woman should sit down and relax, following how he moves.

Doctors very often advise pregnant women to take the position of bed rest - on the left side. It is in this position that the blood supply to the uterus is enhanced, which is used in the treatment of chronic fetal hypoxia and for its prevention.

It is possible to change activity from an uncomfortable or incorrect body position for a woman, for example, lying on her back or sitting with a straight back. When the expectant mother lies on her back, the pregnant uterus strongly compresses the inferior vena cava (one of the main blood vessels).

When this vessel is compressed, blood flow to the uterus is significantly reduced and the baby begins to experience oxygen deficiency.

So that mommy understands that he is ill, he has violent and frequent movements. It is quite simple to establish blood circulation and eliminate hypoxia - mom should turn on her side.

Also, the motor activity of the child changes if the mother is in a stuffy or smoky room. Due to the lack of oxygen, the child reacts to the situation with painful and strong shocks. A woman should leave the room and take a walk in order to restore a comfortable state for herself and the baby.

In addition, fetal tremors change if the mother feels hungry. He is experiencing a lack of nutrients and "calms down", moves sluggishly and reluctantly. But as soon as the pregnant woman has a snack, the joy of the baby is expressed in increased activity.

Movements in pathological conditions

If the child’s motor activity suddenly becomes violent, prolonged and causes pain to a woman, this indicates some kind of pathological condition and requires immediate medical attention:

• Threatened preterm birth

Movements become frequent and violent due to the increased tone of the uterus.

• Polyhydramnios

In this case, the nature of the shocks is radically different. They are rarely felt by a woman, and their strength is insignificant, which is explained by the large volume of the uterus, where the baby rarely touches its walls and the mother does not often feel his movements.

• oligohydramnios

Due to the small volume of amniotic fluid, the child in the womb becomes crowded, he constantly "beats" in the mother's stomach, which is characterized by a woman as frequent and painful tremors.

• Acute hypoxia

With pathologies such as placental abruption, preeclampsia, and others, the fetus experiences acute oxygen deficiency and reacts accordingly.

• Chronic hypoxia

It develops in the presence of fetoplacental insufficiency, anemia, preeclampsia. Movement is sluggish and becomes rare.

• Diaphragmatic hernia in a pregnant woman

In this case, the mother experiences pain under the sternum when the fetus moves.

• Failure of the scar on the uterus

If a woman had a caesarean section in her anamnesis, then with the insolvency of the scar, which can lead to rupture of the uterus, she feels pain in the area of ​​​​the scar when the baby moves.

• Acute cystitis

With inflammation of the bladder, a pregnant woman complains of frequent, painful urination, pain during movements in the lower abdomen.

How do jolts feel?

Each pregnant woman describes the sensations in her own way, besides, they change with an increase in the gestational age.

• For short periods (20 - 25 weeks), women characterize them as “butterfly fluttering” or “fish swimming”. Other pregnant women report "fluttering" or "phone vibrating" or "tickling". Some describe their feelings not so romantically: "gurgling in the stomach, as if the intestines are acting up."
• After 27-28 weeks, when the fetus has already grown enough, its movements become clearer and more specific. The future mother, and even the future father, can feel a kick in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe abdomen where the hand is placed. The dissatisfaction of the baby is very often expressed by such “kicks” - in case of an uncomfortable posture by the mother or with loud and annoying sounds. But if an unfamiliar hand was applied to the mother’s stomach, the child shrinks in fear and does not want to “kick”.

Count

In order to determine how the fetus feels, it is important to count its movements. How to count fetal movements? For this purpose, several methods are used:

Pearson method

This method is based on counting movements over 12 hours. Produced from 9 am to 9 pm. During this test, only one condition is required from a woman - to reduce physical activity. All movements are considered, even the most minimal or weak ones. In the antenatal clinic, the doctor issues a special form or asks you to independently draw up a table of fetal movements, where the time of the tenth movement will be noted. Normally, about an hour should elapse between the first and tenth movement. And of course, the mother must remember that a period of rest is also possible, which should last no more than 4 hours. If this time is exceeded, it is urgent to contact an obstetrician.

To make a table, you should take a notebook sheet in a box and line it as follows. The gestational age is written at the top. Hours from 9.00 to 21.00 are marked vertically, and days of the week or dates are marked horizontally. From nine in the morning, you should start counting the movements. As soon as their number reaches 10, a mark is placed in the table at the hour when this happened. Additional information is entered in the table: there were less than 10 movements and how many in total. We continue the calculation in the following days and be sure to enter the data in a table, with which you need to come to the doctor's appointment.

Cardiff method

The basis of this method also consists in counting the movements of the baby in 12 hours, the only difference is that the woman herself chooses the hour to start counting. Again, a table is compiled, where the tenth stirring is recorded. It is considered normal when the tenth movement happened before the 12th hour of the study. Otherwise, see a doctor immediately.

Sadowski method

The counting of fetal movements begins after dinner from 19.00 to 23.00. This method is based on the fact that in the evening and after eating the fetus increases motor activity. Be sure to record the start time of the count, and the pregnant woman should lie on her left side at this time.

When the fetus makes 10 movements in an hour or less, the counting stops. But if there were fewer of them, continue to count the movements. An unfavorable sign is a decrease in movements (less than 10) in 2 hours.

Thus, it becomes clear that every pregnant woman can master the listed methods of counting the movements of the baby. The use of these techniques does not require any equipment and medical supervision.

Diagnosis of pathology

A change in the nature and intensity of movements in the unborn baby indicates his trouble. A formidable sign is the absence of movements for 6 or more hours, which requires immediate medical attention. Methods for studying the condition of the fetus include:

Auscultation of the fetal heart

Listening to the heart rate is carried out directly by the obstetrician using an obstetric stethoscope (wooden tube). The normal fetal heart rate is 120-160 beats per minute. With a deviation in one direction or another, they talk about oxygen starvation of the baby, which requires instrumental research methods.

Cardiotocography (CTG)

CTG is considered to be an affordable, reliable and most accurate method for assessing the condition of the fetus. CTG is performed from 32 weeks of gestation, and if intrauterine pathology is suspected, even earlier (from 28 weeks). With the help of cardiotocography, not only the movements of the fetus are recorded, but also the rhythm of its heart contractions and uterine contractions. The study is carried out as follows: the pregnant woman is placed on the couch, and 2 sensors are attached to the stomach. One is in a well-listened place of the fetal heartbeat (he will register the heart rate), and the other is nearby (fixes uterine contractions). A cardiotocogram is recorded for at least 30 minutes, but it is also possible to increase the study time to 1.5 hours. During the removal of a cardiotocogram, a woman needs to note every movement of the baby and press a special button. Cardiotocogram analysis includes:

• basal heart rate (normal 120 - 160 beats per minute);
• amplitude of variability (admissibility of deviations up or down) of the basal rhythm (normal 5 - 25 beats per minute);
• decelerations (sudden jumps in the curve down) - normally absent or sporadic, shortened and shallow;
• accelerations (sudden jumps in the curve up) - normally there should be at least 2 within 10 minutes of the study.

For a more accurate diagnosis of the fetal condition, CTG is performed with functional tests (without exercise and with the introduction of intravenous oxytocin).

doppler ultrasound

Carrying out an ultrasound examination allows you to assess the size of the fetus, their compliance with the gestational age (with chronic hypoxia, there is a lag in size). The doctor also studies the structure of the placenta, the degree of maturity (signs of aging), the volume of amniotic fluid and its type (with oxygen starvation of the baby, these indicators change). With the help of dopplerometry, placental and umbilical vessels, blood flow velocity in them are studied. If the blood flow is reduced, they speak of intrauterine fetal hypoxia.

During the ultrasound for 20-30 minutes, the movements of the child, his heart rate and muscle tone are assessed. If the fetus does not experience discomfort, then its limbs are bent - a sign of normal muscle tone. In the case of unbent arms and legs, they speak of a reduced tone, which indicates oxygen starvation.

Question answer

This is my first child, but it's been 4 hours and I don't feel any fetal movements. What to do?

First of all, you need to calm down. The fetus does not always move actively, for 3-4 hours the absence of movements is allowed, at this time the baby is sleeping. Try to hold your breath for a while, the blood will stop flowing to the placenta, to the child, he will experience mild hypoxia and in response he will “be indignant” - he will begin to “beat” with his arms and legs. If this method does not help, watch the baby for another 30 to 40 minutes. In the absence of even the slightest movement, immediately consult an obstetrician.

What movements of the fetus should be before childbirth?

On the eve of childbirth, the baby practically stops moving, which is considered normal. The child is preparing for birth, which is a very difficult process for him and requires a lot of strength, and a decrease in the motor activity of the fetus saves energy before childbirth. But there should not be an absolute lack of movement, the baby, although occasionally, makes movements.

How does cardiotocography and Doppler ultrasound affect the child's condition? Isn't it harmful?

No, these methods are absolutely safe, both for the baby and for the mother.

I am going to give birth to my third child, the term is still small, 10 weeks. What and when should the movements be during the third pregnancy?

It is impossible to say for sure at how many weeks you will feel a stir. Here everything is individual. Normally, during a second pregnancy, the mother begins to feel the movements of the fetus from 18 weeks. But their earlier start is also possible, at 16 weeks. But the nature of the movements can be completely different, unlike the first two pregnancies, and this should not be scared. All children are different, even while still in their mother's belly.

I have a "bad" CTG, which was performed twice. Is it necessary to go to the hospital?

Yes, “bad” results of cardiotocography indicate intrauterine fetal suffering and require medical treatment in a hospital. In addition to treatment in the hospital, you will repeat CTG and, if necessary, decide on early delivery.

Every expectant mother is looking forward to the moment when she can feel the baby moving. It is not surprising: after all, internal shocks contribute to the perception of the child as a full-fledged little man, and not just a picture on the screen.

But tracking movement is important not only for your own joy, but also for conclusions regarding the course of pregnancy. For example, mothers who are expecting their first child are known to go into labor 20 weeks after the initial push. And those women who already have children can expect replenishment in the family in 22-23 weeks.

At what time do the first tremors appear

It's hard to believe, but in fact, the baby begins to move in the stomach much earlier than it can be felt. It's just that at first he is so small that the swings of his arms and legs cannot be felt.

Moms expecting their first child, most often for the first time they feel tremors at 20-23 weeks. By this time, the baby inside is already gaining enough weight, becoming stronger, and he finally manages to “get through” to his mother.

Women expecting a second or a third child, are more observant and sensitive to his movements, so they manage to track the tremors much earlier - around 16 weeks.

There is another reason why a woman may feel movements prematurely - twins waiting. In this case, tremors occur at 15-16 weeks and are intense, widespread. It is easy to confirm the guess with the help of ultrasound.

The duration of the movement may also depend on the type of figure: thin mothers will feel movements inside earlier than women with more magnificent forms.

The dynamics of the child's activity at different times

Doctors note that the baby is most active at 6-7 months of pregnancy, then his movements become more streamlined.

Prior to this, the tremors are felt weaker due to insufficient muscle strength of the child. They are more like light touches, tickling or even rumbling in the stomach.

In the last month, the baby becomes so big that he cannot move freely in the uterus and do everything he likes.

The period of activity is the most difficult for mom. If early tremors are perceived with affection, then at this stage they can seriously interfere with a woman’s rest and sleep.

What influences the child's activity?

Active pregnant women are less bothered by pushing

The nature of the shocks, the "schedule" for everyone is purely individual.

The intensity of movements is also affected by the temperament of the baby. As well as the amount of amniotic fluid, the characteristics of the woman's body, the presentation of the fetus and much more.

But the mother herself can largely influence the activity of the baby. For example, women who are active during pregnancy, doing gymnastics, are less bothered by pushing. The child is lulled by uniform movements, and he calms down.

But when the mother is motionless, the baby, obviously, tries to remind her of her existence and starts pushing again. Therefore, you should be prepared for unplanned nighttime awakenings: the baby will not let you relax.

The child tries to contact his mother, he feels her mood and responds to it.

The nervous state during pregnancy also affects the movements of the fetus. The more experiences you experience, the more active the tremors. That is why it is so important to avoid worries and worries during this period - all this is displayed on your baby.

In addition, the increase in activity is affected by the use of a number of products by the mother, including sweets. Whether this is due to the innate love of children for sweets, with getting an influx of energy, or an attempt to protect mom from extra calories, is unknown - but the fact is the fact.

Why is it necessary to monitor the movements of the child?

If tremors are felt in the upper abdomen, it lies head down, if in the lower, the baby has a breech presentation.

Of course, the movement of a child is a very individual process, and yet there are norms and deviations here. Do not worry if the baby does not make itself felt within a few hours - he can simply sleep.

But if the immobility drags on, this is a reason to be wary. You need to try to stir up the baby with the help of physical exercises, eating sweets.

If this does not help, you will certainly need to consult a gynecologist.

When is it necessary to see a doctor?

Slight movements should normally be regular, as a rule, the baby is “at the peak of activity” up to ten times a day.

If the movements are sluggish

If the movements are sluggish, or you have completely stopped feeling them, this is a reason to see a doctor.

This condition may be associated with serious diseases that need to be urgently diagnosed. Doctors prescribe ultrasound and CTG to identify the cause.

Most often, it is hypoxia, which, in turn, is caused by various complications and diseases in both the mother and the fetus. Among them cardiovascular diseases, anemia, diabetes, abnormal position of the fetus in the uterus and more. With oxygen starvation, excessive activity is most often replaced by lethargy of tremors. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the pregnancy should proceed under close medical supervision.

If the movements are intense

The same applies to too intense movements of the fetus, which cause pain and discomfort to the mother. Excessive mobility does not benefit the child: he can wrap himself around the umbilical cord and harm himself.

It is normal to experience discomfort with tremors in the later stages. You can try to calm your naughty by lulling him.

But if the movements are violent, do not subside and cause severe pain, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Remember that through pushes your baby conveys information to you, the only way he can communicate that he feels unwell and lacks something.

Yes, complications do happen, but don't panic too much after every baby move. Worrying will only increase his anxiety. It is better to track his "messages" and keep a pregnancy diary with joy and peace of mind. Think about how interesting it will be many years later for both you and the already matured inhabitant of your tummy to remember this first communication experience.

The most anticipated, and therefore unforgettable, is the feeling of stirring under the heart of a new life. Future moms and dads are waiting for him with trepidation. Also gynecologists. You will definitely be asked to write down the date of the first movement, and they will already be guided by it to the date of birth. If you are expecting the first baby, then he will be born 20 weeks after the first movement (usually childbirth occurs at the 40th week of pregnancy), and if the second or third, then 2-3 weeks later. At least there are such statistics, but not all women fall under it. As a rule, the first fetal movements occur between the 16th and 24th weeks of pregnancy.

Although in fact the fetus moves already at the 8th week, but since it is still too small, you do not feel it. But later, when the baby grows up, his "gymnastics" will make itself felt with all its might.

How to know that this is a stir?

It can be difficult and easy to understand at the same time. Doctors describe this phenomenon in very different ways, and mothers themselves cannot find the right words. You have to feel the movement yourself. And it’s not a fact that, having felt, you will correctly explain the experienced state to your girlfriend “by position”.

A gynecologist (male) told me poetically about the movement: “Imagine that a butterfly has landed in your hands. You hold her, and she beats her wings in her hands.

Mom's explanations were more prosaic: something would gurgle.

I was impatiently waiting for butterflies in my stomach, but I still got a “gurgle”. But he was the most pleasant and most unforgettable of all the “gurgles”.

Each woman perceives in her own way. For some, this is the splashing of a fish, the fluttering of a butterfly, and for others, intestinal peristalsis. But in both cases, we are talking about the confirmation of a new life. Many pregnant women perceive themselves as a mother after the first stirring.

It happens that impatiently waiting for the first stirring, with the same impatience, mommy waits for its cessation. Babies in the tummy are so active that their movements cause unbearable pain to a pregnant woman.

What determines the mobility of the child in the womb?

Many believe that the character of the baby is already formed in the tummy. Here is the answer for you: a too mobile toddler will make itself felt right away. Although this is not always the case. Often the movements of the baby are not evidence of his temperament, but of well-being, development and health. Therefore, the task for a pregnant woman is very responsible: to analyze every step of her little one, to learn to understand and feel it. Any deviations from your joint normal life should be recorded.

The rate of movement during pregnancy

There are no single "normal" indicators. Although it is generally accepted that, starting from the 25th week of pregnancy, the baby should move at least 10 times per hour.

What do fetal movements indicate?

Movement is life. And even in the womb. Have you already observed your little one with the help of ultrasound? This is a little man with arms, legs, a heart ... With a bad and good mood, in a comfortable, or not very, position. So how can he tell you about all this? Naturally - pushes.

A very common occurrence. Experts say that it does not pose any danger to the baby and does not cause him discomfort. But here mommy will feel it in the form of rhythmic shocks inside herself. These episodes can occur up to several times a day.

Remember. This will also help you understand why your baby is moving. Often it requires your attention as early as 21 weeks. Recognizing your voice, the voice of dad, distinguishing between loud sounds and gentle melody, reacting to light, he will naturally let you know about his feelings and preferences. Undoubtedly, many mothers who have already taken place return with nostalgia to their “pregnant” days. We remember very well how the baby calmed down in the womb if the mother was upset or angry ... And how carefully he reminded himself when the storm of emotions subsided ... And who does not remember the “dance” nights! Barely dragging her legs to the bed, the expectant mother plunges into the long-awaited relaxation, and ... it wasn’t there! In the stomach, the period of wakefulness begins! The kid still lives according to his schedule and is not going to take into account your adjustments.

A baby can perform up to 500 different movements per day. Of course, you won't hear everything. After all, the perceptibility of movements depends on many factors: the amount of intrauterine fluid, the thickness of the abdominal wall, the position of the child and placenta, the mobility of the baby, the sensitivity of the mother.

Starting from the 32nd week of pregnancy, by moving the baby, you can determine the position of the fetus in the uterine cavity. If he is in a breech presentation, you will feel tremors in the lower abdomen. And if the little one “stomps” above the navel, then the presentation is head. By the end of pregnancy, the baby is also preparing for the birth. His movements are already rarer, but by no means absent.

The absence of any movements for more than 12 hours is a serious reason to see a doctor.

In addition, you will need to consult a gynecologist if the child's movements are too rare, lethargic or, conversely, violent, painful. In any case, this indicates the suffering of the fetus. Most often, this condition is caused by oxygen starvation. That's just experts disagree on how to distinguish this pathology. Some believe that during hypoxia the fetus becomes too violent, while others - on the contrary. However, regardless of how your baby lets you know that he is not getting enough oxygen - take into account his signals. After all, hypoxia often causes fetal death. The causes of hypoxia are very different: diabetes mellitus, anemia, cardiovascular disease, fetal disease, and much more. Only a doctor can confirm or refute such a diagnosis. To do this, ultrasound is usually performed, heart sounds are heard, and CTG is also performed.

Cardiotocography is a very informative method for assessing the condition of the fetus. During this examination, the baby's heartbeat is recorded for 1 hour. The norm is not monotonous, but variable heart rate, which ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute. In severe fetal hypoxia, the heart rate is up to 90 beats per minute. In this case, an immediate caesarean section is performed if the pregnancy is more than 30 weeks.

Many doctors recommend that pregnant women do fetal movement tests themselves. D. Pearson's test is widespread: "Count to ten." It should be carried out from the 28th week of pregnancy. From 9 o'clock in the morning to 9 o'clock in the evening they count the movements. The time of the 10th perturbation is recorded daily on a special card. If your baby is inactive, contact your doctor.

Usually violent or weak stirring lends itself to “persuasion” and “training”. It is believed that the baby reacts sharply to the uncomfortable position of the mother. Especially recumbent. And as soon as she rolls over, the child calms down.

If, on the contrary, you need to stir up the little one, they recommend eating something sweet. After all, carbohydrates are the first and very quickly into the bloodstream. The kid gets a portion of dessert and it makes him cheer up.

Still, your main task is to maintain a good mood. Never panic count every flip and push. Enjoy communication with your angel. Give him as much attention as possible, take care of your health, watch your diet, daily routine. Have family get-togethers. The kid will be happy to listen to a fairy tale from dad, a lullaby from mom. Let the stirring of your unborn baby bring only joy. After all, this state is fleeting and nothing can return it to you. Don't miss the most touching moment of your life!

Especially for- Tanya Kivezhdiy