
One of the scariest moments in pregnancy isn’t labour…even though that ranks high up there!
It’s wondering whether your baby’s movements are normal.
Is your baby kicking more than usual?
Or have the movements suddenly reduced?
Both questions deserve answers but they don’t always mean the same thing.
Here’s what every pregnant woman (and everyone who loves one) should know…
Q: Hello Doctor Ketch, I’ve been reading a lot of your answers to questions and I also need some answers. I am 7 months pregnant and the fetal movement has become too much and too forceful. Sometimes I’m scared the baby will kick itself out of me. Please kindly throw more light on all I’ve mentioned, with possible causes and remedies. This is my first pregnancy. Thanks.
A: The first time you feel your baby’s movement is known as quickening and the time women feel it varies person to person. It ranges from 16 to 25 weeks but women who have had babies before may feel this much earlier. Women describe it as different things: a bubbly feeling; butterflies in their tummy; gas etc.
You would have observed that your doctor or midwife has asked you to be aware of your baby’s movement and specifically, make a note to let them know if the movements reduce. This is because reduced baby’s movements may signify baby is in distress or other problems.
Increased movement is however, not that much in the news ![]()
Babies also tend to move around a lot after a meal or if you take drinks that contain caffeine. If you’re struggling to sleep and baby is intent on finding a comfortable position, his/her movements can also get exaggerated
Having said all of these, if you do believe baby’s movements have got more frequent than usual, please see your doctor about this.
Better safe than sorry.








