Antenatal Movements 101: When to Expect Your Baby’s First Flutter

Few moments during pregnancy are as exciting as feeling your baby move for the first time. Those first flutters, often called “quickening,” are not only a beautiful milestone but also an important sign of your baby’s health and development. Understanding when to expect these movements, what they mean, and how to monitor them is essential for every mum-to-be.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about antenatal movements, from recognising your baby’s first flutter to understanding their movement patterns throughout pregnancy.

Why Antenatal Movements Are So Important

Your baby’s movements are a sign that they are growing and developing as expected. Movements indicate healthy brain and muscle development and reflect their well-being inside the womb. According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), being aware of your baby’s movements can help detect any potential problems early, giving you and your healthcare team time to take action if necessary.

Regular antenatal movements also offer reassurance, strengthening the emotional bond between you and your baby. Each flutter and kick is a reminder of the new life growing within you.

When Will You Feel Your Baby’s First Movements?

Most women feel their baby move for the first time between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. If this is your first baby, you might not notice movements until closer to 20 weeks. For those who have been pregnant before, movements may be recognised earlier because you already know what to expect.

Factors That Influence When You’ll Feel Movement:

Placenta Position: If your placenta is located at the front of your uterus (anterior placenta), it can cushion movements, making them harder to feel early on.

Body Size: Slim women may feel movements earlier than those with more body fat.

Baby’s Activity Level: Some babies are naturally more active than others.

Source: The NHS advises that women who haven’t felt movements by 24 weeks should contact their midwife for a check-up.

What Do Early Movements Feel Like?

The first movements, or quickening, can feel like tiny flutters, bubbles, or even a soft tapping. These sensations are often mistaken for gas or muscle twitches, especially in first-time pregnancies.

Common Descriptions of Early Movements:

Gentle flutters, like a butterfly in your belly.

A light popping or bubbling sensation.

A feeling similar to muscle spasms.

As your pregnancy progresses, these movements will become stronger and more recognisable as kicks, rolls, and stretches.

How Your Baby’s Movements Evolve

Your baby’s movements will change as they grow and develop. Understanding what to expect at each stage of pregnancy can help you feel more confident and prepared.

Movements by Trimester:

First Trimester (0–12 weeks): Movements begin around 7–8 weeks but are too small for you to feel.

Second Trimester (13–28 weeks): Quickening typically occurs between 16 and 24 weeks. Movements become more defined as your baby grows.

Third Trimester (29–40 weeks): Movements become more regular and predictable, with kicks, rolls, and stretches dominating.

By the third trimester, your baby should have an established movement pattern, which is important to monitor.

Monitoring Antenatal Movements

Once you start feeling your baby’s movements, it’s helpful to pay attention to their patterns. Every baby is different, so there’s no universal “normal.” Instead, focus on what’s typical for your baby.

Tips for Monitoring Movements:

Pick a Quiet Time: Your baby may be most active in the evening or after you eat.

Track Patterns: Note when your baby is most active and how their movements feel.

Count Kicks: From 28 weeks, many mums find it helpful to track how long it takes to feel 10 movements.

Tip: Use a journal or an app to keep track of your baby’s movements. The Kicks Count app is a popular option in the UK.

What’s Normal and What’s Not

Normal Movement Variations:

Your baby may have quiet periods when they’re sleeping.

Movements may feel different as your baby grows and space in the womb becomes limited.

When to Seek Help:

If you notice fewer movements than usual.

If your baby’s movements suddenly stop or become significantly weaker.

If you’re concerned about your baby’s movements at any point, contact your midwife or antenatal clinic immediately. The NHS emphasises that it’s always better to seek reassurance than to wait.

The Role of Antenatal Checkups

Antenatal checkups are a vital part of monitoring your baby’s health. Your midwife will check your baby’s growth and development at each appointment and can provide advice on movements.

What to Discuss at Checkups:

When you first felt movements.

Changes in your baby’s movement pattern.

Any concerns or questions about monitoring movements.

Regular antenatal care ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.

Supporting Your Baby’s Movements

While you can’t control your baby’s activity levels, there are things you can do to encourage movement and stay connected to your little one.

Tips for Encouraging Movement:

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes reduce your baby’s activity.

Relax and Focus: Lie down in a quiet place to focus on your baby’s movements.

Eat a Snack: A small meal or a glass of juice can sometimes wake your baby up.

Source: Tommy’s PregnancyHub suggests these strategies to help mums feel more in tune with their baby’s movements.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Pregnancies

If you have a high-risk pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, monitoring movements becomes even more important. Your antenatal team may recommend additional scans or monitoring to ensure your baby’s health.

UK Resources for Antenatal Support

NHS Pregnancy Services: Provides guidance on antenatal care, including what to expect with baby movements. Visit NHS Pregnancy Care

Tommy’s PregnancyHub: Offers expert advice on monitoring antenatal movements and pregnancy health. Visit Tommy’s

Kicks Count: A UK-based charity that raises awareness about the importance of monitoring movements. Visit Kicks Count

Final Thoughts: Embrace Every Flutter

Feeling your baby’s movements is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy, offering a unique connection between you and your little one. By understanding what to expect and paying attention to your baby’s patterns, you can feel confident in their health and well-being.

Remember, every pregnancy is different. If you have concerns about your baby’s movements, trust your instincts and seek advice from your midwife or antenatal clinic. Staying aware and informed helps you provide the best possible care for your baby as you prepare to welcome them into the world.