When Should You Expect Quickening in Pregnancy?

Some refer to it as “fluttering” or as tapping or pulsing. Quickening in pregnancy is when you first feel the baby’s movements, marking a special moment in your motherhood journey. Sometimes, it can be challenging to know what to expect, especially if this is your first pregnancy.

As trusted OBGYNs in Durham and Orange counties, we’ve delivered healthy babies for thousands of Triangle area women, and we consider it a privilege to serve you. Are you expecting? Or do you need a preconception appointment? We encourage you to contact us.

We’ll take a closer look at what you can expect with quickening in pregnancy.

When Will You Start Feeling Your Baby’s Movements?

Your baby starts to move around 12 weeks, but you may not feel them move until your 16th week of pregnancy. Sometimes, if it’s your first pregnancy, you may not feel movements until 20 weeks.

If you’re concerned about when you’ll experience quickening in pregnancy, we want you to know that we always welcome your questions, and we pledge to address all your concerns. 

What Can Influence When You’ll Feel Quickening in Pregnancy?

If you’ve already had a baby, the muscles in your uterus may be more sensitive to movement. Those who are thinner may feel it earlier. In addition, quickening in pregnancy may be harder to feel depending on the location of the placenta. 

Is Fetal Movement Normal?

Yes, and as your pregnancy progresses, we’ll ask you to keep track of how often you feel your baby move. This movement is a sign that your baby is growing.

What Does Pregnancy Quickening Feel Like?

It can be difficult to describe, but many of our patients use words like:

• Fluttering
• Popping bubbles
• Light tumbles
• Tapping
• Tiny pulses
• Flickering
• Small muscle spasms

What If I Don’t Feel Quickening?

Try not to panic before 25 weeks, but if you have reached 25 weeks and haven’t experienced quickening, you should schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. Just explain your situation, and we will see you in a timely manner.  We are always here for you. 

When Will I Start to Feel My Baby Kicking?

Your baby’s movements will become stronger and more distinct in your third trimester. Some of our patients even report that they feel their baby doing somersaults in the uterus. You may also feel punches, kicks and even small hiccups.

During this time, we want you to track your baby’s movements so you can be aware of what is considered “normal” for you.  If there is a change–either you feel your baby slow down or stop for an extended period– you should talk to us. 

However,  don’t be alarmed. A change in movement doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something wrong or that you should excessively worry. Still, if you’re experiencing this, you should schedule an appointment with us soon.

From Baby’s First Kick to Their First Breath, We Consider It a Privilege to Care for You

At Chapel Hill OBGYN, you’re not just a number on a patient chart. We recognize your value as an individual, whether you’re starting your family or if you choose not to have children. We support your right to be an active participant in your health care.

See why generations of women have trusted their care to us for decades. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.