Feeling your baby’s kick for the very first time is an entirely new and special feeling. The moment your little one moves inside your womb, you develop an instant connection. In fact, baby movements in the womb are actual proof of a life that’s building inside you and is developing well.
Ideally, you start to experience your baby moving inside you around 18 weeks into your pregnancy. But if this is your first pregnancy, then you may not feel it till about 20 weeks.
Some mums may feel the tell-tale signs at about 16 weeks during the second pregnancy.
Baby Movements In The Womb: How Do They Feel Like?
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Do note that the type of baby movement you feel will depend on the state of your pregnancy and also on your baby’s activity. At the same time, it is also worth noting that every baby is different and so is their growth.
The first sensations that you feel may be similar to fluttering (like butterflies in your tummy), or a tumbling sensation or a tiny kick. You will find that the movements have become more frequent and distinct as your pregnancy progresses.
As your baby grows in size and becomes stronger, your skin will stretch over the womb. It is then that you will feel your baby’s kick and elbowing more clearly.
Towards the end of your pregnancy, you will find that the kicks to your ribs may hurt.
5 Ways You Can Experience Baby Movements In The Womb
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If you do find this interesting and are eager to explore yourself, here are some quick ways to make your baby move in the uterus.
Eat a snack
If you want to get your baby to move in the uterus, eat a small snack and then wait. Try eating a healthy snack like cheese, peanut toast, fruits or even nuts.
Your baby will respond to the surge in blood sugar and will “kick” in high gear. You can also give your little one an extra jolt by gulping down a small glass of natural juice.
For some mums, spicy foods also encourage baby movements in the womb. But it’s usually recommended to avoid spicy meals during the last month of the pregnancy.
Talk to your baby
Remember that fetal hearing develops around week 16 and by the time your baby is in week 22, they can hear your voice and even other sounds, like the swoosh of your blood.
So make sure you talk to your baby and do it often. Those sweet nothings are a great way to make your little one active.
Shine a flashlight on your tummy
It’s possible that your baby will react to light by week 22. And an easier way to try this is by shining a flashlight on your womb. Your little one may turn and move away from the spotlight.
Lay on the side
Sometimes, all you may need is just a slight change in the position to get your baby moving. You may find that lying on your side will increase the blood flow to your baby in the uterus and when the blood flow increases, the little one will start moving inside the womb.
If lying on one side doesn’t help, maybe you can try sitting in the recliner or just putting your feet up.
Turn on the music
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If you find that the usual chatter is not making your baby move, then try to put the music on or you can also sing a lullaby. Your baby may just break into a jig inside your womb.
However, make sure that the sound is not too loud as it is not good for your baby’s developing ears.
Here were some easy tricks to get your baby to move in utero. However, if they don’t work for you, don’t get worked up. Try to keep a track of the kicks or baby movements during your third trimester.
When To Contact The Doctor
Usually, 10 movements (like kicks, rolls or even flutters) in one hour or less is considered normal. If it’s less, it can mean that your baby is sleeping.
So, after an hour eat something hearty and fresh. If you find there is no movement or decreased activity, you must contact your doctor right away. Do not delay any further.
Your doctor will check on your baby’s heart rate and will be able to quickly assess the situation, in case of an emergency.
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