The moment you find out you’re pregnant, a whirlwind of emotions and questions come flooding in. One of the most exciting moments for many couples is feeling their baby move for the first time. But when does that magical moment happen? When can partners feel their baby’s kicks and flutters during the first pregnancy? Let’s dive into this topic and explore what to expect during this beautiful journey of parenthood.
The first time you feel your baby move is called ‘quickening’ and it usually occurs around 16-25 weeks into the pregnancy. While this is the average time, some women may experience it as early as 13 weeks. The sensation of feeling the baby move can differ from woman to woman. Some describe it as a gentle fluttering, while others may feel more of a popping sensation. It’s important to note that the baby kicking feeling is likely to be different for each baby and each pregnancy.
For partners hoping to share in this momentous occasion, there are a few ways to help make that happen. For starters, couples can try placing their hands on mom’s belly and gently massage or rub it in a circular motion or use an ultrasound machine if available. This will help stimulate the baby and hopefully cause them to kick or move at least once so that both parents get to experience it together. Additionally, talking or singing softly near mom’s tummy can also help encourage movement from the baby.
Introduction to Fetal Movements
As your baby grows, they will start to move around in your womb. These movements, called fetal movements, can be subtle at first and you may not feel them until later in your pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses, the fetal movements will become stronger and more frequent.
Most women feel their baby move for the first time between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. However, some women may feel their baby move earlier or later than this. If you are pregnant with more than one baby, you may feel fetal movement earlier because there is less room for them to move around.
Fetal movements can vary from gentle flutters to strong kicks and punches. You may also feel your baby hiccuping or stretching. The amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby cushion them, so you generally won’t feel every movement they make.
There is no need to worry if you don’t feel your baby moving as often as you think you should. Every pregnancy is different and some babies are more active than others. If you’re concerned about fetal movement, talk to your healthcare provider at your next appointment. They can check on your baby’s wellbeing with a fetal heartbeat monitor or ultrasound scan.
When Can a Partner Feel Baby Move?
As the baby grows and becomes more active in the womb, you may be able to feel their movements. This is called quickening. You may first feel movement around 18 weeks into your pregnancy. However, if this is your first pregnancy, you may not feel movement until closer to 20-22 weeks.
Your partner may be able to feel the baby move before you can. This is because they have less padding between their skin and the baby. If your partner places their hand on your stomach, they may feel kicking or punching.
You can also try lying down and placing your hand on your stomach. You may feel movement better this way. Some people compare it to a fish swimming or fluttering sensation in their lower abdomen.
Benefits of Feeling the Baby Move for Partners in Pregnancy
For expectant fathers or other partners, feeling the baby move can be an amazing experience. It can also help to build a stronger bond with the unborn child. Here are some of the benefits of feeling the baby move during pregnancy:
- It can help partners feel more involved in the pregnancy process.
- It can increase the bond between the father and child.
- It can provide a sense of comfort for both partners.
- It can help alleviate any fears or anxiety about the pregnancy.
Steps for Enhancing Partner’s Ability to Feel Baby Move
It is common for couples to want to share in the experience of feeling their baby move for the first time. Here are some steps you can take to enhance your partner’s ability to feel baby move:
- Encourage your partner to eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated. This will help ensure that they have plenty of energy and fluids to support pregnancy.
- Suggest that your partner place their hand on your lower abdomen, just above the pubic bone. They should keep their hand relaxed and wait patiently for baby’s movement.
- If possible, find a quiet moment when you can both focus on the sensations you are feeling. This may be easier said than done with a busy lifestyle, but it will be worth it to share this special moment together.
- Help your partner understand that baby’s movements may feel like flutters at first. It is often described as similar to the sensation of popcorn popping or a goldfish swimming around in a bowl.
- Be patient! Baby’s movements will become stronger and more frequent as pregnancy progresses, so there is no need to worry if your partner doesn’t feel anything right away.
Potential Complications and Concerns for Partners Feeling Baby Move
As your partner begins to feel the baby move, they may start to experience a range of emotions. Some partners feel excited and joyful, while others may feel anxious or even scared. It is important to talk about these feelings with your partner so that you can support each other through this new experience.
Some partners may have concerns about the baby moving too much or not moving enough. Again, it is important to talk to your partner about these concerns and share any information you have about what is normal for fetal movement.
It is also important to remember that feeling the baby move can be a very intimate moment for couples. Some partners may feel like they are intruding on this special moment between you and your baby. It is important to reassure your partner that they are welcome and encouraged to share in this experience with you.
Conclusion
Feeling your baby move for the first time can be an incredible experience that brings a feeling of joy and amazement. While partners may be able to feel the baby move earlier than mothers, this is not always the case as every pregnancy is different. That said, most pregnant women will start to feel their baby’s movements at around 16-24 weeks gestation while partners should expect to feel it slightly later in the third trimester. The exact timing varies from pregnancy to pregnancy so if you are unsure when you or your partner should expect it, speak with your doctor or midwife for more information.
