Is it normal for baby movements to feel painful in the third trimester?

Strong kicks or stretches may feel uncomfortable at times when they are near your ribs or pelvis, but this is normal. It only happens when your baby grows, and the womb may feel too tight to move around.

Should I worry if my baby’s movements feel less strong on some days?

All babies have rest and active periods just like adults, but it can be alarming to notice a continuous decrease in movements. Visit the hospital in such cases or when you do not feel movements during their active times.

Can strong baby movements harm my baby or me?

Strong Movements are healthy signs of baby development, and they are not harmful. However, inform your doctor if you experience severe pain when your baby moves.

Why Baby Movements Feel Stronger as Pregnancy Progresses

Feeling your baby move is the most exciting part of a pregnancy, and it feels so special when it's the first time. Those tiny flutters are also a sign of reassurance that your baby is doing fine. You may notice these movements become distinct and sometimes quite strong as your pregnancy advances.

The First Gentle Flutters

You may feel your baby move as early as 18-22 weeks into pregnancy, which is also called quickening, because they usually feel like gentle taps or flutters. Their movement may not have much force as the baby is small at this stage. They can be easily missed if you are not paying attention to them.

However, these movements become stronger and harder to miss as your baby grows during the later stages of pregnancy. They only become more prominent and regular over time, allowing you to bond with them.

Why Movements Become Stronger Over Time?

The reasons for the movements feeling stronger with time as your pregnancy advances are listed below:
1. Baby’s growth and muscle development: Your baby grows at a faster rate in the womb, which means strong muscles and bones. They can stretch, kick, and punch with force due to better muscle control. Therefore, you feel sharper jabs and rolls instead of tiny flutters.
2. Less room in the womb: Your baby gets enough room in the womb to move freely when you are in the second trimester, making any movement subtle to feel. However, that changes quickly with the third trimester because they grow big, and the womb may feel small to move around. Their movement starts to press firmly against your uterine wall, making you aware of each kick.
3. Increased awareness of movements: You may not notice every movement at first because you are unfamiliar with the sensations. As your pregnancy progresses and you become aware of them, you may feel them constantly.
4. Healthy nervous system development: Your baby’s brain and nervous system continue to develop throughout pregnancy. They gain better control of their movements in the third trimester of pregnancy, resulting in more coordinated and forceful activities. You may even distinguish clearly between the rolls, kick, and stretch.

What do These Stronger Movements Mean for You?

Strong baby movements are a positive sign in pregnancy, indicating that the baby is growing well. You may even notice patterns in the movements, as some babies become active at night or when you eat. You can understand these patterns to bond with your baby and also feel assured of their health.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Although strong movements are a good sign, consult your doctor under the following circumstances.

You notice a sudden decrease in movements.
You feel no movements for several hours, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
The pattern of movements changes noticeably.

The best way to monitor a baby’s activity is by counting their kicks. Ideally, they should be around 10 in the active stage within two hours. Just follow your doctor’s advice for what is normal in your pregnancy, as they can suggest the best course of action for your specific case.

What Are Some Tips for Tracking and Managing Baby Movements?

Be mindful of the following tips while connecting with your baby’s activity.

Note the times of day when your baby is most active and maintain a journal to write down the number of kicks.
Lie down on your left side to increase blood flow so that the movements become more noticeable.
Try drinking water or eating something to encourage your baby to move.
Discuss any unusual movements you experience with your doctor to receive timely help.

It is natural for the movements to become intense with time as your baby grows and gains muscle control. They are a sign of the positive growth of your baby inside the womb. You may be caught off guard by some kicks, but they are a crucial part of this journey. You can bond with them by staying aware of their activity and seeking guidance if necessary.

You may also notice that the movements fall into a natural pattern as your pregnancy progresses, so your baby may stay active at certain times of the day. They are normal and nothing to worry about. You can even tell when your baby will be active so that you can be ready to feel the kicks. You can create a connection with your baby before they are born through their little kicks and be assured that they are in good health.

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FAQs on Why Baby Movements Feel Stronger as Pregnancy Progresses

Is it normal for baby movements to feel painful in the third trimester?
Strong kicks or stretches may feel uncomfortable at times when they are near your ribs or pelvis, but this is normal. It only happens when your baby grows, and the womb may feel too tight to move around.
Should I worry if my baby’s movements feel less strong on some days?
All babies have rest and active periods just like adults, but it can be alarming to notice a continuous decrease in movements. Visit the hospital in such cases or when you do not feel movements during their active times.
Can strong baby movements harm my baby or me?
Strong Movements are healthy signs of baby development, and they are not harmful. However, inform your doctor if you experience severe pain when your baby moves.