Causes and Factors of Reduced Fetal Movement
Decreased fetal movement is a common reason for pregnant women to seek emergency medical care. It can lead to psychological distress and anxiety, although it is not always a cause for concern in many situations. Below are some factors that may contribute to reduced fetal movement:
- Body Position: Pregnant women are more likely to feel fetal movements when lying on their left side or sitting with their feet elevated. Conversely, being engaged in various activities may lessen the perception of these movements.
- Anterior Placenta: The position of the placenta can affect the sensation of fetal movement during pregnancy. If the placenta is located on the front wall of the uterus, the fetus may be positioned behind it, leading to a delay in the sensation of movement. On the other hand, if the placenta is situated on the back of the uterus, the fetus is positioned closer, making movements more easily perceptible.
- Distraction: When a woman is preoccupied with daily activities or under stress, she may be less aware of her pregnancy, resulting in a decreased perception of fetal movements.
- First-Time Pregnancy: Women who have previously been pregnant often find it easier to distinguish fetal movements from other sensations like gas or digestion. In contrast, first-time mothers may struggle to identify the early movements of the fetus.
- Fetal Sleep: Fetuses have sleep cycles and may be inactive while sleeping. Their sleep patterns may not align with those of their mothers, leading to increased awareness of movement during maternal sleep and decreased movement perception during wakefulness. Moreover, fetal movement occurs during specific times that can be unpredictable.
- Other Factors: Other various factors can also limit the perception of fetal movements, including low amniotic fluid levels, smoking, early pregnancy, obesity, alcohol consumption, and the use of certain medications such as benzodiazepines and opioids. Additionally, the sex of the fetus may influence movement patterns, with female fetuses generally exhibiting less active movements than male fetuses.
Periods of Reduced Fetal Movement
Fetal movement may decline during certain specific times, including:
- Sexual Activity: Contractions of the uterus during sexual intercourse may result in temporary fetal sleep, leading to diminished awareness of movement afterward. However, in some instances, fetal movement may increase post-intercourse. It is important to note that sexual activity is generally safe during pregnancy unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.
- Second Trimester: The smaller size of the fetus during this stage can make it less likely for the mother to perceive regular movements. Additionally, the fetus may be more active during the mother’s sleep, and its position in the womb can affect the perception of movement.
- Third Trimester: The fetal sleep-wake cycles tend to become more regular during this phase. Reduced activity at certain times may indicate deep sleep; however, it is crucial to monitor fetal movements closely in the ninth month and to notify a doctor if there is a sudden drop in movement frequency.
Rhythm of Fetal Movement
Typically, mothers can start feeling fetal movements around the 18th week of pregnancy, though it may be delayed until week 20 for first-time mothers or felt earlier at week 16 for those with prior pregnancies. It is essential to understand that the fetus’s activity and sleep patterns may differ from those of the mother. The fetal activity cycle can range from 20 to 40 minutes or even up to 90 minutes in some cases. Generally, peak fetal activity occurs between 9 AM and 2 PM, and again between 7 PM and 4 AM. As pregnancy progresses, fetal movements generally increase until about the 36th week, after which the growing size and weight of the fetus may lead to stronger but less frequent movements, including stretching, curling, and rolling. It is important to continue feeling fetal movements even during labor in healthy pregnancies.
When to Consult a Doctor
Each fetus has a unique pattern of movement and activity. Pregnant women can learn to recognize this pattern over time and should be alert to any sudden changes. Should a significant decrease in fetal activity or strength of movements be noticed, it is advisable to contact a healthcare provider immediately. While opinions may differ on how to monitor fetal movement patterns, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends counting movements over two consecutive hours. It is considered normal to observe 10 movements during this timeframe; if fewer than ten movements are noted, the count can be repeated at another time. If the expected number is still not reached, or if there’s a noticeable decline in fetal activity, consulting a doctor is essential. Additionally, if fetal movements are not felt by the 24th week of pregnancy, it is critical to seek medical evaluation to ensure the well-being of the fetus and to assess heart activity.
Video on Causes of Reduced Fetal Movement
Watch this video to learn more about the causes of reduced fetal movement: