Why does a baby push so hard in the stomach?

The baby is moving vigorously in the uterus - has something really happened? Each expectant mother is worried about the condition of his child in the womb. On early stages The baby’s well-being is monitored using various tests and ultrasounds, which the pregnant woman undergoes according to schedule. From about 18 weeks (for some earlier, for others a couple of weeks later), the pregnant woman has the opportunity to control the development process of her child through its movements. It is during this time that it reaches such a size that the mother can finally feel its movements.

When everything happens as doctors warn and is described in books, then future mommy calm and experiencing only joy from signals from the stomach. The norm is considered to be the presence of motor activity of a child in an amount of at least 10 episodes per day. Increased frequency or, on the contrary, rarer movements may indicate certain deviations.

The most common statement is that the fetus moves very much when there is a lack of oxygen - hypoxia. There are many reasons given for its occurrence. These include disorders in the mother’s body (kidney disease, diabetes mellitus), and a lack of certain elements in the blood (low hemoglobin), and the environment, and the bad habits of a pregnant woman. Hypoxia is dangerous because it disrupts the development of the fetus, because it simply does not have enough oxygen. The earlier it begins and the longer it continues, the greater its impact.

In order to improve blood supply to the placenta, the baby actively kneads it with his arms and legs. And mom can feel it very well. According to other statements, a fetus experiencing oxygen starvation, on the contrary, reduces the number of its movements. He simply does not have the strength for them. This can be observed if hypoxia has already reached a high degree of development.

Talking about hypoxia is not at all meant to scare expectant mothers. After all, the main reasons why a child moves a lot in the stomach are by no means so critical. The “culprit” may be the consumption of certain foods (for example, sour lemon) or an abundance of glucose. That is, an eaten chocolate bar will give the baby energy to actively express himself.

The baby can start exercising if his mother does not do it. The child pushes strongly, provoking his parent to move, walk on fresh air, because this is so necessary for a complete flow of oxygen to the placenta. The little man already has his own character and may simply turn out to be a smart guy. Then your stomach will shake, but this will be absolutely normal.

The child actively moves in the stomach even when he sleeps well. This usually happens closer to night, when mom, on the contrary, is getting ready for bed. In short, if you are under good medical supervision and are already familiar with your baby’s routine and temperament, then active movements should not cause alarm. It is worth paying attention to them only if this has not been observed before, and you noted that the behavior of the fetus has changed over some time. In this case, report your suspicions to your doctor for further examination.

Often, young mothers report that before giving birth the baby moves a lot, and not, on the contrary, freezes, as is described in the literature for pregnant women. Typically, such increased activity is observed precisely with the onset of contractions. The uterus contracts, the child begins to periodically experience a lack of oxygen and physical discomfort, which is why he pushes. But during childbirth this should not cause much concern, since doctors monitor the condition of the fetus in the hospital.

Every pregnant woman awaits the first movements of her baby with special trepidation. This is the main evidence of the child’s well-being and vitality. That is why expectant mothers worry about whether the baby is comfortable in the stomach, whether he is getting enough oxygen, or whether he is moving too much. In our article we will dwell in detail on the situation when the child is very active in the stomach. We will pay special attention to the reasons for this behavior of the baby and tell you how to help him calm down faster.

Despite modern methods Diagnosis of the fetus, movements are perhaps the main confirmation of its normal development and growth. Usually the expectant mother begins to feel them in the fifth month of pregnancy. But in fact, the child begins to move much earlier.

In the eighth week of pregnancy, the fetal nervous system begins to develop. By this moment, he already has muscle tissue, which is excited by nerve impulses. The first motor reflexes, caused by contractions of nerve endings, are observed in the fetus from the end of the eighth week of pregnancy. Thus, in the womb the baby begins to move quite early, although unconsciously. In addition, there is still quite a lot of space in the amniotic sac and the embryo floats freely in it without touching its walls.

At about 16 weeks of pregnancy, the baby begins to respond with movements to sounds, primarily to the voice of its mother. With each subsequent week, fetal movements only intensify. At 18 weeks, he is already touching the umbilical cord, covering his face with his hands and making other simple movements.

The date when a woman can say for sure that the baby in her stomach is moving very actively is individual for each pregnant woman. This happens between 18 and 22 weeks. It all depends on the sensitivity threshold of each specific woman. With each subsequent week, the movements become more intense and clear. From them, a pregnant woman can judge whether the baby is growing and developing normally in the uterus, whether he is receiving enough nutrition and oxygen.

How does the expectant mother feel?

For a pregnant woman to feel the first movements, the baby must push quite hard against the wall of the uterus. In this case, the sensations of the expectant mother will be barely noticeable. They can be compared to the movements of a small fish or the fluttering of a butterfly. But it is from this moment that the woman becomes the “sensor” that allows her to monitor the condition of the baby in her stomach.

The baby's first movements are not clearly coordinated, but over time they acquire a certain meaning and significance. In many ways, the frequency of fetal movements depends on the activity of the mother and the time of day. On average, a five-month-old baby makes up to 60 movements daily in the womb.

From about 24 weeks, the baby’s movements become clearer, and in the third trimester you can even see the belly moving. The movements feel more like the movements of a newborn. Most women call them very nice.

On long term The expectant mother often feels pain in the hypochondrium when the baby moves. This is not a deviation from the norm. It is enough to change the position of the body and the movements will become moderate. If active movements of the fetus in this case cause pain to the woman, it is recommended to inform the doctor about this.

The intensity of movements and the well-being of the fetus

From the moment the expectant mother felt the first movements of the baby in her stomach, she must constantly listen and control them. A complete cessation of movement within 12 hours is a very alarming signal. At 6 months of pregnancy, the fetus should make 10-15 movements per hour if it is in the waking stage. At the same time, the baby can sleep for a long time, about three hours in a row. Experienced moms know what to do in this case. If you hold your breath for a few seconds or eat a piece of chocolate, the baby usually wakes up and begins to be active. The pregnant woman should be concerned about complete rest of the fetus for 24 hours. In this case, you need to consult a doctor so that he can listen to the child’s heart rhythm or do an ultrasound.

The experiences of the expectant mother can be associated not only with the calm in the stomach, but also with why the child is active, and more precisely, why he moves more than usual. First of all, this may be due to the uncomfortable position that the woman has taken (sitting, crossing her legs, lying on her back), in which insufficient oxygen is supplied to the child. In this case, you need to change position. If after 1-2 hours the child’s activity does not decrease, you should consult a doctor.

Thus, the expectant mother should be wary of both excessive activity of the fetus and its weak movements. But there should be no reason to panic. This is just another reason to contact a specialist.

Test to determine the number of movements

From the 28th week of pregnancy, the expectant mother must take control of the child’s activity. This test is carried out 2 times a day (morning and evening) and consists of performing a simple sequence of actions. Mom needs to count the number of movements during a certain period of time and write them down. The test is performed in the following sequence:

1. Mom records the time of the first movement (for example, 9 a.m.).
2. The woman records all movements of the fetus, including light kicks and rollovers.
3. As soon as 10 movements are recorded, the counting stops. As a result, the time interval from the first to the last shock should be about 20 minutes. This indicates good fetal activity.
4. If a pregnant woman does not feel the baby's movements within an hour, she is recommended to have a snack with chocolate or drink sweet tea, and then continue the control count. If fetal activity remains low, you should consult a doctor.

It is worth noting that from 28 to 32 weeks the baby will move more actively than, for example, at more later pregnancy. This fact must also be taken into account when counting movements.

Why does the baby move very actively in the stomach?

It is considered normal when a pregnant woman feels 10 distinct movements during the day. At the same time, in recent weeks the kicks may be less obvious, their character changes. This is explained by the fact that by the end of pregnancy the baby becomes quite large and feels cramped in the stomach. If from 24 to 32 weeks a woman experiences more than 10-15 movements per day, she needs to see a doctor.

It should be noted that usually the baby in the belly is very active due to:

• hypoxia - lack of oxygen to the fetus;
• unstable emotional state of the expectant mother, overexcitation, stress;
• smoking, drinking alcohol and other bad habits;
• unbalanced diet.

Consumption of caffeine, too spicy foods and other foods that have bright taste, has a negative impact on emotional state baby, which may cause him to move more. To help the baby calm down, you should find out why the baby in the stomach is very active. In addition to the above reasons, the fetus reacts sharply to other factors occurring outside.

Influence of environmental factors on fetal activity

The baby in the womb is able to react to what is happening in environment changing your usual behavior. Factors contributing to this include:

• music and other sounds, noise;
• the touch of future mother and father;
• smells.

Most babies don't like loud noises they hear from outside. He responds to them with movements. Typically, the fetus's activity increases in response to the loud sound of power tools, too loud music, etc. As a rule, the child can be calmed only when the unpleasant sounds outside have subsided. Psychologists recommend avoiding them during pregnancy.

At the same time, if the baby in your belly is very active, you can quickly calm him down with the help of classical music. US scientists have proven that the works of Mozart or Vivaldi have a positive effect on the children's nervous system and intrauterine development. When listening to calm classical music, the baby easily calms down along with his mother.

After 24 weeks of pregnancy, fetal movements can cause quite painful sensations for the expectant mother. In this case, when the child is very active in the stomach, dad's touch can calm him down. All he needs to do is put his hand on his stomach to make the baby quiet for a while. If you don’t immediately remove your hand, the fetal kicks may even intensify, since babies in the womb love to play with new people whose touches they feel.

Child's reaction to smells

Not only touches and sounds affect the baby’s motor activity. He also reacts to some unpleasant odors with strong movements, as if trying to turn away from them. It has been proven that the baby in the womb does not like the smell of chlorine, acetone, oil and acrylic paint, varnish, various solvents, etc.

The baby begins to move actively even when exposed to tobacco smoke. Nicotine has a strong negative effect on the fetus. Moreover, not only direct smoking by the mother, but also the smell of smoke in the room has a negative effect on the intrauterine development of the child. In both the first and second cases, the child experiences oxygen starvation, and starting to move vigorously, he tries to cope with hypoxia. It is enough for the mother to leave the smoky room into fresh air and the baby will immediately calm down.

Constant exposure unpleasant odors negatively affects the intrauterine development of the fetus, prevents normal weight gain, and oligohydramnios. That is why a pregnant woman should refuse to participate in repairs or cleaning using aggressive detergents and smoking.

Active movement of the baby before birth

The greatest motor activity of the fetus is observed from 24 to 32 weeks, which is associated with the characteristics intrauterine development crumbs. The baby grows, develops and strives to understand the world around him, which is at the moment for him it is limited to the walls of the uterus. In addition, already in the womb the baby lives according to its own life rhythm. During the waking period, it becomes more active, while during sleep there is a lull. Over time, the expectant mother will learn to understand the baby's daily routine.

On the eve of his birth, the child usually calms down. He still moves daily, but his movements become less intense and infrequent. He can roll around, kick his mother with his legs and arms, but he will never be able to roll over on his own. There is a superstition among pregnant women that if the baby stops actively moving, then birth is very close. At 40 weeks, the baby has very little space left in the uterus. If even at this stage the baby is moving very actively in the stomach, then this behavior is an exception to the rule and it should alert the expectant mother.

Usually, intense fetal movements before birth indicate some kind of discomfort or oxygen starvation. In this case, if the baby is very active in the stomach, the pregnant woman is advised to go out into the fresh air and take a walk. If this does not help and the movements are still strong, the woman is advised to consult a doctor. At this stage, the risk of oxygen starvation is quite high and poses a great danger to the fetus.

How to determine that hypoxia has begun?

If the nature of fetal movements, their frequency and intensity changes, an ultrasound examination or cardiotocography is recommended. But first, it will be enough to contact your attending obstetrician-gynecologist, who can listen to the baby’s heart rhythms. It has been proven that if a child does not receive enough oxygen, his stomach behavior becomes restless and his heartbeat quickens. Together with other parameters, excessive fetal activity allows the doctor to diagnose the initial stage of intrauterine hypoxia. The reasons for this condition may be different:

• complications during pregnancy;
• Rhesus conflict;
• intrauterine diseases of the fetus;
• anemia of the expectant mother, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases.

The condition when the child moves very actively in the stomach refers to initial stage hypoxia. At this point, the heart rate increases by an average of 15 beats per minute. With progressive hypoxia, its movements weaken or cease.

To determine the condition of the fetus, the following is used:

• ultrasound diagnostics - the thickness of the placenta is assessed, the number amniotic fluid, position of the umbilical cord, size of the child;
• Dopplerometry - this method allows you to study the blood flow between the placenta and the fetus;
• cardiotocography - using special sensors you can monitor the baby’s heartbeat, breathing and movements.

To prevent oxygen starvation, the expectant mother is recommended to rest more and walk in the fresh air.

How to help a very active child calm down in his stomach?

If during the day fetal movements rarely cause discomfort to the expectant mother, especially if she is on the move all day, then at night they can become the main cause of insomnia. In order to calm a child who is very active in the stomach, a pregnant woman should take the following measures:

1. Walking in the fresh air. They are needed to prevent oxygen starvation and excessive activity of the fetus. If it is not possible to take a walk before going to bed, then thoroughly ventilating the room will be enough. Gymnastics and various warm-ups are also a good way to prevent hypoxia.
2. Change of body position. Often increased fetal activity can be caused by the mother's uncomfortable position. Sometimes simple rolls from back to side help cope with strong movements of the baby in the stomach.
3. Eliminating the source of stress. The emotional connection between mother and baby is very close, so it is no coincidence that he reacts sharply to her mood. With a balanced mother, the baby grows calmer.
4. Listening to calm music. Classical music and a gentle parental voice have a positive effect on the condition of the fetus.
5. Balanced diet. The food a mother eats during pregnancy should be healthy. Preservatives, caffeine, and flavorings excite the fetal nervous system. They should be avoided during pregnancy.
6. Drink soothing herbal teas and infusions. During pregnancy, it is better to replace black tea, rich in caffeine, with a herbal drink with mint or lemon balm.
7. Establishing contact with the child. Rhythmic stroking movements on the belly calm the baby. This should be taken into account if the baby is very active in the tummy at night. The warmth of his mother's hands will help him calm down faster.

Update: October 2018

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

Why does the fetus move?

Movements are necessary for a little man in the womb; they speak about his growth and development. The baby begins to move already in the first trimester, at approximately 7–8 weeks. By the 10th week, he begins to swallow, he can change the trajectory of his movements and touch the walls of the amniotic sac. But the size of the embryo is still insufficient; it only floats freely in 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 18 weeks future baby begins to finger the umbilical cord with his hands, knows how to squeeze and unclench his fingers, and touches his face.

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

• strong, unpleasant, loud sounds;
• a feeling of discomfort in the womb, such as maternal hunger;
• stress experienced by the mother (due to the release of adrenaline, blood vessels, including those in the placenta, contract, blood supply deteriorates);
• oxygen starvation (due to active movements, the placenta is stimulated, its blood supply increases, which provides the baby with additional oxygen).

In addition, if a woman takes 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 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 build (thin or plump);
• Times of Day;
• option for placenta attachment;
• lifestyle;
• individual sensitivity (some feel it from 15 – 16 weeks);
• mother's behavior (physically active women they just don’t notice the movements).

According to statistics, the first movement of the fetus during the first pregnancy is felt by the pregnant woman at 20 weeks. And when the fetus is carried again, the period of movement is reduced to 18 weeks.

But everything is individual, even for an individual woman, the second, third and subsequent pregnancy proceeds differently each time. If a woman during her second pregnancy began to feel fetal movement at 19 weeks, then during her third pregnancy these dates may change (feel earlier or later).

Normal movements

The rate of fetal movements depends on how far along the pregnancy the expectant mother is. The baby is constantly moving, but of course, the woman cannot feel all his movements.

• At 20–22 weeks, the fetus completes up to 200 movements per day,
• but by 27 - 32 weeks he is already fulfilling about 600 movements. It is characteristic that with the beginning of the third trimester (32 weeks) the quantity decreases, which is explained by its weight (the fetus is already quite large) and it becomes crowded in the uterus. There are no longer “large” movements (turns and revolutions in the uterus) and the baby can only make “small” movements with his 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 - during this time the baby does not make active movements. The expectant mother should remember certain cycles of activity of the child. The greatest activity is observed from 7 pm to 4 am, and the decrease in activity or the so-called resting state occurs from 4 am to 9.00.
• By 32 weeks, the fetus takes its final position, usually with its head towards the pelvis (longitudinal position, cephalic presentation). But transverse position or breech presentation are not excluded. The mother should not despair; to correct such positions, the doctor will always prescribe special gymnastics that help the fetus turn over and take it to the “correct” position - longitudinal, with the head towards the pelvis.

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

Changing the intensity of movements

If the baby is well and comfortable in the womb, 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 sharply, which should alert the woman and requires consultation with an obstetrician.

As a rule, a woman notices “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. This phenomenon is easily explained. When a woman is at rest, she listens more carefully to her feelings and carefully notes the baby’s movements. When she is busy, she does not have time to escape from her work and she simply does not notice that the baby is moving. In order to dispel her doubts (the child is not feeling well, he is dying), the pregnant woman should sit down and relax, watching how he moves.

Doctors very often advise pregnant women to take the bed rest position - 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.

Possible change in activity from uncomfortable or not correct position body of 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 not feeling well, he begins to have violent and frequent movements. It is quite simple to establish blood circulation and eliminate hypoxia - the mother should turn on her side.

Also, the child’s motor activity 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 tremors. A woman should leave the room and take a walk to restore a comfortable state for both herself and the baby.

In addition, fetal kicks change if the mother feels hungry. He's experiencing a shortage nutrients and “quiets down”, moving sluggishly and reluctantly. But as soon as the pregnant woman has had a snack, the baby’s joy is expressed in increased activity.

Movements in pathological conditions

If the child’s physical activity suddenly becomes violent, prolonged and causes pain to the woman, this indicates some kind of pathological condition and requires immediate consultation with a doctor:

• Threatening premature birth

The movements become frequent and violent due to increased tone 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 feel his movements so often.

• Low water

Due to the small volume of amniotic fluid, the baby becomes cramped in the womb; he constantly “beats” into the mother’s stomach, which is characterized by the woman as frequent and painful tremors.

• Acute hypoxia

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

• Chronic hypoxia

Develops in the presence of fetoplacental insufficiency, anemia, and gestosis. 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.

• Incompetence of the uterine scar

If a woman has a history of C-section, then if the scar fails, which can lead to uterine rupture, she feels pain in the area of ​​the scar when the baby moves.

• Acute cystitis

When the bladder becomes inflamed, a pregnant woman complains of frequent, painful urination and pain when moving the lower abdomen.

How do tremors feel?

Each pregnant woman describes the sensations differently, and they change as the gestational age increases.

• In short periods (20–25 weeks), women characterize them as “the fluttering of a butterfly” or “the swimming of a fish.” Other pregnant women report a "fluttering" or "phone vibration" or a "tickling" sensation. Some describe their feelings not so romantically: “gurgling in the stomach, as if the intestines were acting up.”
• After 27–28 weeks, when the fetus has grown sufficiently, its movements become clearer and more specific. The expectant mother, and even the future father, can feel a kick in the area of ​​the abdomen where the hand is placed. The baby’s dissatisfaction is very often expressed by such “kicks” - if the mother takes an uncomfortable position or with loud and annoying sounds. But if an unfamiliar hand touches the mother’s belly, 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 counted, even the most minimal or weak ones. At 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 pass between the first and tenth movements. 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, you must urgently contact your 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. The hours from 9.00 to 21.00 are marked vertically, and the days of the week or dates are marked horizontally. From nine in the morning you should start counting your 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 into 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 into a table, with which you need to come to the doctor’s appointment.

Cardiff method

The basis of this method is also to count the baby’s movements over 12 hours, the only difference is that the woman herself chooses the hour to start counting. Again, a table is compiled where the tenth movement made is recorded. It is considered normal when the tenth movement occurs before the 12th hour of the study. Otherwise, consult a doctor immediately.

Sadowski method

Counting 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’ motor activity increases. The time at which the counting begins must be recorded, and the pregnant woman must lie on her left side at this time.

When 10 fetal movements are made 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) within 2 hours.

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

Diagnosis of pathology

A change in the nature and intensity of movements in the unborn baby indicates that he is not well. A serious sign is the absence of movement for 6 or more hours, which requires immediate treatment. medical care. Methods for studying the condition of the fetus include:

Auscultation of fetal heartbeats

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

Cardiotocography (CTG)

CTG is rightfully considered an accessible, reliable and most accurate method of assessing the condition of the fetus. CTG is performed from the 32nd week of gestation, and if intrauterine pathology is suspected, at an earlier date (from 28 weeks). Using cardiotocography, not only fetal movements are recorded, but also the rhythm of its heartbeat and uterine contractions. The study is carried out as follows: the pregnant woman is placed on a couch, and 2 sensors are attached to her stomach. One is in a well-audible place of the fetal heartbeat (it will record the heart rate), and the other is nearby (records uterine contractions). The recording of a cardiotocogram is carried out for at least 30 minutes, but it is possible to increase the study time to 1.5 hours. When taking a cardiotocogram, a woman needs to mark every movement of the baby and press a special button. Cardiotocogram analysis includes:

• basal heart rate rhythm (normal 120 – 160 beats per minute);
• amplitude of variability (permissibility of deviations up or down) of the basal rhythm (norm 5 – 25 beats per minute);
• decelerations (sudden downward jumps in the curve) – normally absent or sporadic, shortened and shallow;
• accelerations (sudden upward jumps in the curve) – 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 stress and with intravenous oxytocin).

Ultrasound with Doppler

An ultrasound examination allows one to assess the size of the fetus and its correspondence to the gestational age (with chronic hypoxia, a lag in size is noted). 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). Using Doppler, placental and umbilical vessels and the speed of blood flow in them are studied. If blood flow is reduced, they speak of intrauterine fetal hypoxia.

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

Question - answer

I have my first child, but 4 hours have passed and I do not feel the fetus moving. What to do?

First of all, you need to calm down. The fetus does not always actively move; no movement is allowed for 3–4 hours, during which time the baby sleeps. Try to hold your breath for a while, blood will stop flowing into the placenta, to the baby, he will experience mild hypoxia and in response he will “be indignant” and begin to “beat” with his arms and legs. If this method does not help, watch the baby for another 30 - 40 minutes. If there is no even the slightest movement, immediately contact your obstetrician.

What fetal movements should there be before birth?

On the eve of birth, 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 allows him to save energy before childbirth. But there should not be an absolute absence of movements; the baby, although occasionally, makes movements.

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

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

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

It is impossible to say for sure how many weeks you will feel movement. Everything here is individual. Normally, during a second pregnancy, the mother begins to feel fetal movements from 18 weeks. But their onset is also possible earlier, at 16 weeks. But the nature of the movements may be completely different, unlike the first two pregnancies, and this should not be alarmed. All children are different, even while they are still in their mother’s belly.

I have a “bad” CTG, which was performed twice. Do you have to go to the hospital?

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

Having listened to the stories of experienced moms, the pregnant woman begins to worry why her baby is not making himself known, constantly moving in her belly, or, conversely, why he is too active today. Under no circumstances should you listen to other people’s advice, because every woman’s body perceives pregnancy differently.
First movements baby should be felt between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy; how sooner or later this will be depends on many factors.

Feeling baby's first movement mother depends on the amount of intrauterine fluid, the position of the child and, the thickness of the abdominal wall, the energy of the baby and the sensitivity of the mother. Typically, women who are pregnant for the first time feel fetal movement at the 20th week, and those who have already given birth - at the 18th week. The baby's first kicks in the mother's belly are very timid and quiet, so you may not even feel them, confusing them with "murmuring" in the stomach. Subsequently, the baby’s movements become more noticeable and stronger; by 24 weeks of pregnancy, the movements of the fetus in the womb already resemble the movements of a newborn baby.

From this age baby begins to actively “communicate” with parents in the language of movements, informing them of his joy, pleasure, grief and anxiety. The baby shows maximum activity at 24-32 weeks of pregnancy. It is normal if, after 28 weeks of pregnancy, the mother feels the baby moving at least 10 times a day. The baby can move during the day while the mother is awake, as well as at night when she is sleeping. All movements of the baby in the mother’s belly are not accidental; they are caused by the following factors:

1. External factors. The baby reacts intensely to various external influences. For example, to the sound of music, to the voice of dad or mom. If dad puts his hand on mom's belly, he begins to actively move, reacting to an external stimulus.

2. Nutrition. If the baby begins to move too actively, it means that he does not have enough nutrition or oxygen. With its movements, the baby activates the placenta to receive more blood. This often happens when the mother sits or lies in an uncomfortable position, squeezing large blood vessels. Also, movements help the baby untangle the umbilical cord loops if they are compressed.

3. Mom's emotions. Starting from the 24th week of pregnancy, the baby actively reacts to the mother’s mood. If the mother’s condition is bad, then some babies behave very quietly at this time, while others, on the contrary, begin to “rebel.” If the mother sits for a long time watching TV, and the baby gets tired of it, then he signals with his movements that it is time for her to start walking or doing gymnastics.

4. Mode. Each baby growing in the mother’s body has its own characteristics of temperament and reaction to various stimuli. It is considered normal if the baby sleeps for 3 hours and during this time the mother does not feel him move. The child may move stronger or weaker depending on his temperament or mood. The baby begins to move less at the time of birth, but the force of the tremors increases by this time.

If Baby does not move for 12 hours in a row or does not stop actively moving for several hours, despite the fact that the mother changes position, then you should immediately consult a doctor. In these cases, a violation of intrauterine development of the fetus is possible - hypoxia, the cause of which may be insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients. In the absence of adequate treatment, hypoxia can lead to fetal death.

5. From gestational age. As the pregnancy progresses, the baby grows and becomes stronger. Along with its growth, the shocks are replaced by strong “kicks”, and by the end of pregnancy you can already see how the baby turns over inside. Mom’s belly changes shape at this time. From the 36th week of pregnancy, the baby takes a certain position in which it remains until birth. Normally, if the baby is in a head-down position, when the fetus takes this position, the mother may feel pain in the hypochondrium. Then the baby’s activity decreases and becomes calm. You shouldn’t be afraid of this; from the 36th to the 40th week, the baby’s growth is not so intense. Many mothers also worry when the baby begins to “hiccup” in the stomach. At the same time, the pregnant woman feels the baby shuddering at certain intervals. Such movements of the child are associated with the baby’s intensive swallowing of amniotic fluid, during which his diaphragm actively contracts. This is not dangerous for its development and is considered normal.

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

Although in fact the fetus is already moving 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 force.

How do you know that this is a movement?

It happens that understanding this is both difficult and easy at the same time. Doctors describe this phenomenon very differently, and the mothers themselves cannot find the right words. You need to feel the movement yourself. And it’s not a fact that, having felt it, you will correctly explain the experienced state to your friend “by position.”

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

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

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

Every woman perceives it differently. For some it is the splashing of a fish, the fluttering of a butterfly, and for others it is intestinal peristalsis. But in both cases we're talking about about confirmation of new life. Many pregnant women perceive themselves as a mother after the first movement.

It happens that while waiting impatiently for the first movement, mommy is just as impatiently waiting for it to stop. Babies in the tummy can be so active that their movements cause unbearable pain to a pregnant woman.

What determines the mobility of a child in the womb?

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

Normal movements during pregnancy

There are no clear “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 uterine period. You've already monitored your little one with an ultrasound, haven't you? This is a little man with arms, legs, a heart... In a bad and good mood, in a comfortable, or not so comfortable, position. So how can he tell you about all this? Naturally - with pushes.

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

Remember. This will also help you understand why your baby is moving. It often requires your attention as early as 21 weeks. Recognizing your voice, dad's voice, distinguishing loud sounds and gentle melody, reacting to light, he will naturally let you know about his feelings and preferences. Undoubtedly, many already accomplished mothers return with nostalgia to their “pregnant” days. We remember very well how the little one 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 doesn’t remember the “dancing” nights! Barely dragging her feet to the bed, the expectant mother plunges into long-awaited relaxation, and... no such luck! The period of wakefulness begins in the stomach! The baby still lives according to his own schedule and is not going to take your adjustments into account.

A baby can perform up to 500 different movements per day. Naturally, 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 baby and placenta, the baby’s mobility, the sensitivity of the mother.

Starting from the 32nd week of pregnancy, the position of the fetus in the uterine cavity can be determined by the baby’s movements. If he is in a breech position, you will feel the tremors in the lower abdomen. And if the toddler “stomps” above the navel, it means the presentation is cephalic. Towards the end of pregnancy, the baby is also preparing to be born. His movements are already more rare, but by no means absent.

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

In addition, you will need to consult a gynecologist if the child’s movements are too rare, sluggish or, conversely, violent and painful. In any case, this indicates the suffering of the fetus. Most often, this condition is caused by oxygen starvation. But experts disagree on how to distinguish this pathology. Some believe that with hypoxia the fetus becomes too violent, while others believe that it is the opposite. However, regardless of how your baby lets you know that he doesn't have enough oxygen, take his signals into account. After all, hypoxia often causes fetal death. The causes of hypoxia are very different: diabetes, anemia, cardiovascular diseases, fetal disease and much more. Only a doctor can confirm or refute such a diagnosis. To do this, an ultrasound examination is usually performed, heart sounds are listened to, and a 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 a monotonous, but a variable heart rate, which ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute. With 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 perform fetal movement tests themselves. A widely used test is D. Pearson: “Count to ten.” It should be carried out from the 28th week of pregnancy. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., movements are counted. The time of the 10th movement is recorded daily on a special card. If your baby is inactive, consult your doctor.

Typically, violent or weak movements can be “coaxed” and “trained.” It is believed that the baby reacts sharply to the mother’s uncomfortable position. Especially recumbent. And as soon as she turns over, the child calms down.

If, on the contrary, you need to motivate your little one, they recommend eating something sweet. After all, carbohydrates enter the bloodstream first and very quickly. The baby gets a portion of dessert and this makes him cheer up.

However, your main task remains to support good mood. Under no circumstances should you make panicky calculations of every rollover and thrust. Enjoy communication with your little angel. Pay him as much attention as possible, take care of your health, watch your diet and daily routine. Have family get-togethers. The baby will be happy to listen to a fairy tale from dad, a lullaby from mom. Let the movement of your future baby bring only joy. After all, this state is fleeting and nothing can bring it back to you. Don't miss the most touching moment of your life!

Especially for- Tanya Kivezhdiy