Feeling Baby Move
The Highlight of Pregnancy and an Early Sign of Labor?
Feeling baby move was definitely my favorite part of pregnancy. I just can't describe the wonderful feeling it gave me to imagine what the baby was doing or what body part I was feeling. Pregnancy is truly a magical time. Have I mentioned that I *loved* being pregnant? But I digress, back to fetal movement...
Besides the incredible experience that feeling your baby move brings, how can fetal movement be a sign of labor? Well, as the big day nears, many babies will slow their movements as if saving their energy for the big day. You might notice that you feel more whole body movements like shifting position rather than the streams of kicks and pokes that were so prevalent in the past few months.
This is due to a few factors, the first of which is the fact that the baby is rapidly running out of room. She's outgrowing the efficiency apartment that was for so long quite roomy and spacious. The second is that as the baby engages in the pelvis, she has become more constricted and her movements more limited.
While it is typical at the end of pregnancy for fetal movement to slow, you still should feel regular activity. A good idea is to complete a kick count or a kick chart. This is something you may have already discussed with your care provider.
Here's what you do. Pick an hour span during the day when it's easy for you to pay attention to feeling baby move. A good guideline to follow is that you should count at least 10 movements within an hour. It's always good to remember that some babies are more active than others. In that case, 10 movements may be too few. Always keep in mind what is normal for your baby.
Let me reiterate that if you are concerned at all about feeling your baby move less, please contact your care provider. That's all part of motherhood-the worrying starts in utero.
