Feeling the first subtle movements of a baby, often called “flutters” or “quickening,” is a significant milestone during pregnancy. These gentle sensations are the initial signs of fetal movement within the uterus. The experience can feel like soft taps, bubbles popping, or a gentle swishing, distinct from typical digestive sensations. This early activity offers reassurance that the baby is growing and developing.
Understanding Early Fetal Movement
The initial perception of fetal movement, known as quickening, typically begins between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. For many, especially those experiencing their first pregnancy, these sensations might not be felt until closer to 20 to 24 weeks. Individuals who have been pregnant before often recognize these movements earlier, sometimes as early as 13 to 16 weeks, due to increased familiarity with the sensation. These early movements can be described in various ways, often likened to a butterfly fluttering, fish swimming, popcorn popping, or even tiny muscle spasms. While the baby begins moving internally much earlier, around 12 weeks, these movements are too small and subtle to be perceived by the pregnant individual. As the baby grows, these soft flutters gradually become more distinct and recognizable.
Why the Timing Can Vary
Several factors can influence when a pregnant individual first perceives these flutters. The position of the placenta plays a role; an anterior placenta, located at the front of the uterus between the baby and the abdominal wall, can cushion movements. This cushioning effect may delay the sensation of movement, making it harder to feel until the baby’s movements become stronger. Conversely, a posterior placenta, positioned at the back, may allow movements to be felt earlier.
A pregnant individual’s body type can also affect the timing of perceived movements. Individuals with more abdominal fat may feel movements later. While this might make it harder for external observers to feel movements, it does not necessarily prevent internal sensation.
Experience from previous pregnancies is a factor, with those who have had children often identifying flutters sooner. They are already attuned to these subtle sensations and can differentiate them from other bodily feelings. An individual’s activity level also influences awareness, as movements are more noticeable when resting quietly.
Distinguishing early flutters from other internal sensations, such as gas or muscle spasms, is common. Gas bubbles typically feel like rolling or gurgling, are often accompanied by digestive symptoms, and resolve quickly. Fetal movements are usually felt lower in the abdomen near the uterus and tend to be more consistent or prolonged, developing a pattern over time.
What to Expect Next
Once the initial flutters are felt, fetal movements will gradually evolve. The gentle sensations will become stronger, transforming into more noticeable kicks, jabs, and rolls as the baby grows and has less room to maneuver within the uterus. By the third trimester, around 28 weeks, movements become more frequent and vigorous. Individuals often start to observe patterns in their baby’s activity.
Monitoring fetal movement, sometimes referred to as “kick counts,” becomes important later in pregnancy. This involves paying attention to the baby’s usual patterns of movement to understand what is normal for that individual baby. While there is no universal number of movements, consistency is key.
It is important to contact a healthcare provider if there is a significant decrease or absence of movement, or any noticeable change in the baby’s usual pattern. Changes in movement can indicate a concern, and prompt assessment by a healthcare professional is advised.