Feeling your baby move

16-20 weeks

• Women who have already had a baby tend to feel their baby's first movements at around 16-18 weeks
• First-time mums are more likely to feel movements at around 18-20 weeks because they don't recognise the sensation at first
• Women describe the feeling as being like fluttering wings or air bubbles moving around in your tummy

20-26 weeks

• Your baby's movements will become stronger and you will start to feel punches, kicks and somersaults
• You will gradually become used to your baby's movements and their particular pattern
• You may notice rhythmic twitches now and again when your baby has a fit of hiccups
• Your baby may jump when they hear a sudden loud noise
• Some babies are more active than others and all babies go through quiet and active periods

27-40 weeks

• Your baby's movements will peak between weeks 26 and 32
• You may feel large roll-over movements that take your breath away for a moment
• As your baby becomes more cramped in your womb, their movements will feel slower
• As your due date approaches most babies settle into a head-down position and you may feel uncomfortable kicks to your ribs.

When to call the midwife

• If you notice any change in your baby's pattern of movements call your midwife or doctor
• You know your baby best so always be guided by your instincts