Reduced fetal movements

Surgical specialty: Obstetrics and gynaecology

Definition

The concern of a pregnant patient that the movements of the fetus have decreased in frequency or intensity.

 

Advice for pregnant patients

• Perceived fetal movements are defined as the maternal sensation of any discrete kick, flutter, swish or roll. 
• Most women are aware of fetal movements by 20 weeks of gestation. 
• Although fetal movements tend to plateau at 32 weeks of gestation, there is no reduction in the frequency of fetal movements in the late third trimester.

If women are unsure whether movements are reduced after 28+0 weeks of gestation, they should be advised to lie on their left side and focus on fetal movements for 2 hours. If they do not feel 10 or more discrete movements in 2 hours, they should contact their midwife or maternity unit immediately.

 

Investigations

• Cardiotocography