The sensation of feeling “bubbles” in the stomach is common during pregnancy, often mimicking early fetal movement. This internal fluttering, popping, or gurgling is usually a benign result of significant physiological changes in the digestive tract. Understanding the two primary sources—the gastrointestinal system and the uterus—can help distinguish between normal discomfort and the activity of your developing baby.
The Role of Gas and Digestion
A frequent cause of a bubbly or gurgling sensation is the accumulation and movement of gas within the intestines. This digestive slowdown is directly related to high levels of the hormone progesterone, which is integral to maintaining the pregnancy. Progesterone acts as a smooth muscle relaxant throughout the body, including on the walls of the gastrointestinal tract.
This relaxation decreases the speed of peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contraction that moves food through the digestive system. Slowed digestion allows more time for gas to build up, leading to bloating and the feeling of internal bubbling. The expanding uterus, particularly in the third trimester, adds a mechanical element to this discomfort.
The growing uterus physically crowds the abdominal cavity, placing direct pressure on the stomach and intestines. This compression makes it difficult for trapped gas to move freely and be expelled, exacerbating the sensation of gurgling or popping. The resulting feeling of gas bubbles working their way through the restricted space can feel remarkably similar to a light flutter or movement. Gas sensations are typically felt in digestive tract locations and may be accompanied by general discomfort or bloating.
Fetal Movement and Other Uterine Sensations
If the bubbling sensation is rhythmic or consistently localized, it is likely related to the baby’s activity, which can feel surprisingly gentle in the beginning. Early fetal movements are often described as flutters, twitches, or a sensation like popcorn popping, which can easily be mistaken for gas bubbles. As pregnancy progresses, the movement that most closely resembles internal bubbling is fetal hiccups.
Fetal hiccups are involuntary contractions of the baby’s diaphragm, occurring as the fetus practices breathing by inhaling amniotic fluid. The rhythmic, steady nature of these contractions is perceived as a series of small, uniform jerks or pulses that can feel like persistent bubbling or tapping. This sensation is generally a positive sign, indicating that the baby’s nervous system and diaphragm are developing appropriately.
While a strong kick or jab is unmistakable, these subtle movements, or even the baby changing position, can cause a fluttery, bubbly feeling. In the third trimester, as the space inside the uterus becomes more limited, the force of movement is intensified. However, subtler, rhythmic movements like hiccups continue to be perceived as a gentle, internal pulse. The key difference from gas is the predictable, almost metronome-like pattern of the sensation.
Managing Discomfort and Sensations
Regardless of whether the bubbly feeling is digestive or fetal in origin, several strategies can help minimize the associated discomfort. To address gas and bloating, focus on eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large, heavy ones. Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly helps reduce the amount of air swallowed, which contributes to gas buildup.
Hydration is an effective tool, as drinking plenty of water helps keep the digestive tract moving and prevents constipation, a common cause of gas. Light physical activity, such as a gentle walk, can stimulate the intestines and encourage the movement of trapped gas. Positional changes, like lying on your left side, can help alleviate trapped gas discomfort by utilizing gravity to aid digestion.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
While the bubbly sensation is usually harmless, specific symptoms warrant immediate contact with a healthcare provider. Any pain that is severe, sharp, or constant and does not subside after resting should be evaluated. This is particularly true if the pain is localized to the upper right side of the abdomen, as this could be a sign of a serious condition like pre-eclampsia.
Other concerning symptoms include vaginal bleeding or spotting, an unusual discharge, or strong, regular cramping that may indicate preterm labor. A noticeable decrease in the baby’s usual pattern of movement, especially after 28 weeks, signals the need for prompt medical advice. Contact your provider if you have any persistent concerns about your internal sensations.