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Why does your baby move more at night?
Your daytime movements lull your baby to sleep
When you are walking, working, or doing household tasks, your body movements gently rock your baby during the day. This rocking effect lulls your baby to sleep in the womb. Your baby may wake up and start moving at night when you finally lie down.Hormonal changes play a role
Your body produces higher levels of melatonin, a hormone which helps regulate sleep. However, melatonin can also stimulate your baby’s activity. This hormonal shift can provide more energy to your baby during your rest hours.Increased awareness when you’re resting
You may be too busy during the day to notice the small movement. During the night, everything is quiet, and you may lie still, which makes you more aware of the movements. So, it may feel like your baby is more active, even if they do similar activities throughout the day.Developing sleep-wake cycles
Your baby follows sleep and wake patterns, but they are not yet similar to yours. Babies in the womb spend most of their time sleeping (about 90–95%) and have short active periods when you are resting.Is nighttime activity normal?
Activity at any time by your baby in the womb, including at night, is considered normal. The movements assure you that your baby is doing well and developing as they should. The activity pattern gets more consistent between 18 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. Some babies are more active, while others are calmer by nature.What factors can make your baby more active at night?
- Food and drinks: Eating a meal or snack with sugar can increase your baby’s movements because it raises your blood sugar.
- Stress and emotions: Your body produces adrenaline when you are anxious or stressed, which may also affect your baby’s activity.
- Noise and light changes: A quiet and dark environment at night can make your baby more alert to any external sounds, leading to movements.
- Position of your body: The blood flow to the uterus increases when you lie on your side, and may make your baby more active.
When should you pay attention to your baby’s movements?
Kick counts become necessary after 28 weeks of pregnancy to understand your baby’s health. Most doctors recommend counting the kicks by this time by considering the following general guideline.- You should feel at least 10 movements within 2 hours when your baby is active.
- Contact your doctor as soon as you notice a sudden decrease in movement or if your baby’s pattern changes.
What can you do if your baby’s activity keeps you awake?
You may not get enough sleep if your baby gets active at night, but you manage it.- Change your position and try to sleep on your left side, which will calm the baby while also increasing the blood flow.
- Deep breathing or calm music can help you stay relaxed.
- Eating a light snack or drinking warm milk before bed can help your baby settle down.
- Your baby can sleep more if you stay active during the day by walking or doing prenatal yoga if your doctor permits.
Emotional aspect: bonding with your baby
Sometimes, your baby’s nighttime activity may feel frustrating when all you want to do is rest. However, this shows that your baby is doing well in the womb. Opportunities like this are also perfect for creating an emotional connection with them. You can gently place your hand on your bump, talk to your baby, or invite your partner to feel the baby move.Checklist: What to do next if your baby is active at night
- Observe the pattern of your baby’s movements and timing.
- Count the kicks daily after 28 weeks.
- Eat nutritious foods and drink sufficient water to support healthy activity in the womb.
- Try relaxation techniques before bedtime to help you sleep better.
- Contact your doctor if your movements suddenly slow do
When should you see a doctor urgently?
Visit your doctor under the following circumstances.- Fewer than 10 movements in the span of 2 hours.
- Movements suddenly decrease after an active period.
- Severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or fluid leakage along with reduced movements.
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FAQs on Why Certain Babies Are More Active at Night While in the Womb?
- Is it normal if my baby kicks only at night?
Some babies are more active during certain times, including nighttime, which is normal. The crucial thing to notice is the daily regular movements of your baby. - Can too much kicking mean something is wrong?
A healthy baby can kick frequently without meaning that something is wrong. However, if it suddenly changes or you experience pain, then consult your doctor. - How can I differentiate between normal and reduced movement?
You can count kicks daily, and anything less than 10 movements in 2 hours during a usual active time can be a warning sign. You can also inform your doctor if your baby’s movement pattern changes.