You can expect to feel your baby move, often described as fluttering or gentle kicks, typically between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. If it is your first pregnancy, you might not feel movements until closer to 20-25 weeks. Women who have been pregnant before may feel movements as early as 13-16 weeks. The sensations at first can feel like butterflies or twitches and become more distinct as pregnancy progresses. By the third trimester (from about 28 weeks onward), movements are usually strong and frequent, sometimes up to 30 times an hour. Your baby may be most active in the evening and at night. If you have not felt your baby move by 24 weeks, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider for a checkup. In summary:
- First pregnancy: usually 18-25 weeks
- Subsequent pregnancies: possibly as early as 13-16 weeks
- Movements start as gentle flutters, becoming stronger over time
- Most active in the evening/night
- Contact your doctor/midwife if you do not feel any movement by 24 weeks or notice a change in usual activity
This timeline gives you a good indication of when to expect to feel your baby move during pregnancy.
