As your due date approaches, your child will most probably settle into a head-down position.
What to expect throughout your pregnancy
16-20 Weeks
- Women who have already had a child tend to feel their child's first fetal movement at around 16-18 weeks
- First-time mums are more likely to feel fetal movement at around 18-20 weeks because they don't recognize the sensation at first
- Women describe the feeling as being like fluttering wings or air bubbles moving around in your tummy
20-26 Weeks
- Your child's fetal movement will become stronger and you will start to feel punches, kicks and somersaults
- You will gradually become used to your child's fetal movement and their particular pattern
- You may notice rhythmic twitches now and again when your child has a fit of hiccups
- Your child may jump when they hear a sudden loud noise
- Some are more active than others and all go through quiet and active period
27-40 Weeks
- Your child's fetal movement will peak between weeks 26 and 32
- You may feel large roll-over movements that take your breath away for a moment
- As your child becomes more cramped in your womb, their fetal movement will feel slower
- As your due date approaches, your child will most probably settle into a head-down position and you may feel uncomfortable kicks to your ribs.
When to call the midwife
- If you notice any change in your child's pattern of movements call your doctor
- You know your child best so always be guided by your instincts
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