Feeling the baby move is a highly anticipated milestone in pregnancy, deepening the bond and making the reality of pregnancy more tangible. This natural curiosity often leads to questions about when these first movements might be felt.
Understanding Early Fetal Movements
At nine weeks of gestation, the developing fetus is incredibly small, typically measuring about 0.5 to 1.67 inches, similar to the size of a cherry or a grape, and weighing around 0.07 ounces. While the fetus is actively moving internally at this stage, these motions are not yet perceptible to the pregnant individual. The fetus’s small size, deep position within the uterus, and surrounding amniotic fluid mean that any movements, such as subtle twitches or the flexing of developing limbs, are not strong enough to be felt. Though tiny muscles are forming and joints are beginning to flex, these earliest movements remain imperceptible.
When You Can Expect to Feel Your Baby Move
The first time a pregnant person feels fetal movement is commonly referred to as “quickening.” This significant milestone generally occurs between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. Individuals who have been pregnant before may sense these initial flutters earlier, sometimes as early as 13 to 16 weeks, as their uterine muscles might be more sensitive and they are more familiar with the sensation. For those experiencing their first pregnancy, quickening often happens later, typically between 18 and 20 weeks, and potentially up to 25 weeks.
The sensation of quickening varies widely, often described as gentle flutters, the feeling of bubbles or gas, light tapping, or even like popcorn popping. It can sometimes be mistaken for digestive activity, especially in early stages, due to its subtle nature. Factors such as the location of the placenta can also influence when movement is felt; for instance, an anterior placenta, positioned at the front of the uterus, can cushion movements and delay their perception.
What to Expect in Early Pregnancy
While feeling fetal movement is not typical at nine weeks, this period is marked by many other significant changes and symptoms. Common experiences include morning sickness, which often peaks around this time, and a pronounced sense of fatigue as the body works to support the developing pregnancy. Other frequent symptoms include breast tenderness, increased urination, and mood fluctuations, driven by surging pregnancy hormones.
Many individuals also report headaches, a heightened sense of smell, and shifts in food preferences, experiencing new cravings or aversions. Bloating is also a common occurrence, even if a visible baby bump is not yet present. These symptoms are normal indicators of the body adapting to pregnancy.