What your baby's movements feel like

Fetal movement typically occurs in short bursts, and it can vary from slow rolling or stretching motions to more vigorous kicks.

Most women and pregnant people become aware of this movement by around 25 weeks of pregnancy. A baby’s movements can be described as anything from a kick, flutter, swish or roll. The type of movement may change as your pregnancy progresses and your baby grows. While all pregnancies and babies are unique, most will experience increased fetal movement as the pregnancy progresses and as the baby grows. Regular patterns of fetal movement can indicate a healthy baby. If you notice any changes in fetal movements, such as decreased or increased movement, you should consult a healthcare provider.

Call your midwife or maternity unit immediately if:

• Your baby is moving less than usual
• You cannot feel your baby moving anymore
• There is a change to your baby’s usual pattern of movements

They’ll need to check your baby’s movements and heartbeat.

Why are my baby’s movements important?

Feeling your baby move is a sign that they are well. DO NOT WAIT until the next day to seek advice if you are worried about your baby’s movements. It is NOT TRUE that babies move less towards the end of pregnancy or in labour. Do not worry about phoning; it is important you talk to your maternity unit for advice, even if you are uncertain. It is very likely that they will want to see you straight away. There is always a midwife available, even at night.

A reduction in a baby’s movements can be an important warning sign that a baby is unwell. Around half of women who have a stillbirth notice their baby’s movements slow down or stop.

Remember, do not wait until the next day – call immediately, even if it’s the middle of the night.

Badger Notes App

Maternity services across Sussex use an electronic maternity notes system called BadgerNet, replacing paper notes.

There are several benefits to using ‘BadgerNet’ Maternity Notes rather than paper notes:

• Information such as appointment dates and test results can be shared with you directly from the maternity system
• Records can be easily updated at each maternity visit or appointment and can be viewed by you at any time during your pregnancy or after your baby is born
• Midwives do not have to double enter data onto paper handheld notes and an internal system
• Greater security/privacy as only those with the correct login details can access your notes

Why should I use the Badger Notes app?

The app not only allows you to manage your appointments and notes, it is also full of useful guidance and advice.

Information is given week-by-week throughout your pregnancy, with recommended reading at each stage. You will be notified by the app if there is something new to read that week. Alternatively, you can search the app’s library, which is full of helpful guides and leaflets.

Within the library, you will find an in-depth leaflet about your baby’s movements. Please log in and take a look.

 

Hayfever in Pregnancy

There are many safe and effective medicines to treat hayfever in pregnancy, and other things you can do –

• Keep wearing a facemask
• Limit exposure to allergens where possible
• Ask for anti-allergy eye drops and Fluticasone nasal spray
• Put vaseline around nostrils to trap dust
• Use saline sprays to rinse inside nose
• Take antihistamine tablets *

*Safe antihistamines in pregnancy: Cetrizine, Loratadine and Chlorphenamine. Discuss medicines with your healthcare professional.