During labor, it is indeed possible to continue feeling your baby move. However, the nature of these movements might differ from what you have experienced in the weeks leading up to labor.
Baby’s Movements During Labor
You can expect to feel your baby move throughout labor, though the sensations may change. These movements often manifest as wiggles, shifts, or a general sense of pressure rather than distinct kicks. The baby’s position within the uterus can influence how these movements are perceived. For example, if the baby is deeply engaged in the pelvis, movements might feel less pronounced in the upper abdomen.
Even as labor progresses and contractions become more intense, some fetal movement is typically still felt. While the pattern might change, a complete absence of movement is not expected. The baby’s activity can fluctuate, with periods of rest and periods of movement.
Reasons for Changes in Sensation
Several factors can alter how a birthing person perceives their baby’s movements during labor. The intensity and frequency of contractions can mask fetal movements, making them less noticeable. As the uterus contracts, it tightens around the baby, which can momentarily restrict the space for large movements and shift a person’s focus to the contraction itself.
Another contributing factor is the baby’s descent into the birth canal. As the baby moves lower into the pelvis, the available space for movement decreases, which can lead to a change in the type and intensity of sensations. Additionally, the birthing person’s focus on managing labor pain can divert attention from subtle fetal movements. Pain medication, such as an epidural, can also reduce sensory perception in the lower body, potentially making it harder to distinguish fetal movements.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While some changes in fetal movement are normal during labor, a significant decrease or complete absence warrants immediate medical attention. Healthcare professionals will assess the situation to ensure the baby’s well-being. Trusting your instincts about your baby’s movements is important, and open communication with your medical team helps ensure the safest possible outcome.
The Role of Fetal Monitoring
Healthcare providers routinely monitor fetal well-being throughout labor, even when the birthing person reports feeling movements. This monitoring helps assess the baby’s heart rate and its response to contractions, providing crucial information about their health. Electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) involves placing sensors on the abdomen to continuously record the baby’s heart rate and the mother’s contractions.
Another method is intermittent auscultation, which involves periodically listening to the baby’s heart rate with a handheld Doppler device. These monitoring methods complement the birthing person’s awareness of movements, providing an objective assessment of the baby’s condition. The purpose of this monitoring is to identify any potential signs of distress, allowing the medical team to intervene if necessary.