You can generally start to feel your baby move between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. For first-time mothers, movements are often felt closer to 20 weeks or later, while those who have been pregnant before may notice movements as early as 13 to 16 weeks
. Early movements feel like gentle fluttering or butterflies, and as the pregnancy progresses, these movements become stronger and more distinct, including kicks and jabs
. Some women report feeling subtle fetal movements as early as 14 to 15 weeks, but this varies widely depending on individual factors such as the position of the baby and the mother's sensitivity
. If you have not felt any movement by 24 weeks, it is advisable to contact your midwife or doctor for a checkup
. In summary:
- Earliest possible movements: around 13-15 weeks (more common in subsequent pregnancies)
- Typical first movements: 16-24 weeks
- First-time mothers often feel movement closer to 20 weeks or later
- Movements start as fluttering and become stronger over time
If you notice a decrease or absence of movement after you have started feeling it, you should seek medical advice promptly
