You will typically start to feel your baby move, called "quickening," between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. If this is your first pregnancy, you might feel these first movements closer to 25 weeks. For women in their second or subsequent pregnancies, movements may be felt as early as 13 to 16 weeks. These early baby movements can feel like flutters, butterflies, or gentle twitches. Factors like the position of the placenta (especially if it's at the front of the uterus) can delay when you feel movements. The movements become more distinct and frequent as your baby grows, especially by the second trimester's end and into the third trimester, where the baby may move around 30 times each hour. If you do not feel any movement by 24 weeks, it's important to contact your healthcare provider to check the baby's well-being. In summary:
- First movements often between 16-25 weeks
- First pregnancies: sometimes closer to 25 weeks
- Subsequent pregnancies: possibly as early as 13-16 weeks
- Placenta location and other factors can influence timing
- Movements feel like fluttering, butterflies, or gentle twitches
- If no movement by 24 weeks, seek medical advice
You are likely to feel the baby more when resting quietly, sitting or lying down, especially in the evenings. This information can help you know what to expect about feeling your baby move in the womb.
