She knows her baby’s routine. By this time, the kicks usually begin.

Today, her hand rests on her belly and…..nothing.

Call your maternity unit or the hospital where you receive antenatal care now. If you cannot reach them, go to the nearest hospital with maternity services. Do not wait until morning.

There is no movement number that fits every pregnancy. What’s important is your baby’s usual pattern and the strength of those movements.

Call for assessment when your baby moves less than usual. Call when the movements feel weaker. Call when you can no longer feel movement. Call, if you’re not sure.

Do not delay assessment while trying food or cold drinks at home. A home Doppler cannot tell you whether your baby is well. Hearing a heartbeat does not replace a proper check.

At the hospital, the maternity team will check your baby’s heartbeat and assess the pregnancy. They may arrange further monitoring or a scan.

Your baby should continue moving right up to labour. The movements may feel different as pregnancy advances, but they should still be present.

If reduced movement happens again after a reassuring assessment, please return for another check