What to do if you can no longer feel your baby moving at 9 months pregnant

Pregnancy is a period filled with excitement and worry for all expectant mothers. Feeling your baby move inside you is a reassuring sign that all is well. Yet it can happen that at 9 months pregnant, you no longer feel your baby's movements as frequently or intensely. This can be a source of stress and anxiety. What does this phenomenon mean? Is it normal? What steps should you take if in doubt? We will address these questions and many more in order to provide you with comprehensive information.

Understanding foetal movements

What is a normal foetal movement?

Foetal movements include kicks, nudges, and even stretches in the womb. These activities generally begin to be felt between the 18th and 25th week of pregnancy. At 9 months, your baby should have a particular routine of recognisable movements.

Factors influencing movements

Several factors can influence the quantity and frequency of movements you feel:

Amniotic fluid: a decrease in amniotic fluid can reduce the space available for the baby's movements.

Baby's position: if the baby is in a different position, this can affect the perception of movements.

Mother's activity: when you are active, you may be less attentive to the baby's movements.

Why might your baby be moving less?

Physiological reasons

At 9 months pregnant, your baby has grown considerably and the space inside the womb becomes much more restricted. This reduction in space means that movements will naturally be less pronounced. However, this should not prevent all movement entirely.

Baby fatigue or sleep

During the final weeks of pregnancy, babies spend a great deal of time sleeping. Deep sleep periods can last up to 50 minutes, during which the baby will move very little or not at all.

Risk of a medical problem

Although there are often benign reasons for feeling fewer movements, it can sometimes indicate a more serious condition. A reduced number of movements could signal a problem with the placenta or an abnormality with the umbilical cord. In rare cases, it may indicate that the baby is suffering from a lack of oxygen or an insufficient supply of nutrients.

What to do if movements decrease?

Home assessment

If you are worried about no longer feeling your baby move at 9 months of pregnancy, there are several simple steps you can take before contacting a healthcare professional:

Move gently: try walking around the house to attempt to stimulate the baby's movements.

Drink a glass of fruit juice: the natural sugar may help to rouse the baby.

Lie on your left side: this position promotes blood circulation to the baby, making movements more perceptible.

When to consult a professional?

If, despite your efforts, you still cannot feel the baby moving after two hours, it would be wise to consult a midwife or obstetrician. They will be able to carry out checks such as:

A foetal heart rate monitor: to check your baby's heartbeat.

An ultrasound scan: to visualise the foetus and assess the amount of amniotic fluid.

Further tests: such as a biophysical profile, which examines the baby's overall well-being in the womb.

Practical tips for monitoring your baby's movements

Keeping a movement diary

Keeping a daily diary noting each movement you feel can help you monitor changes. Note the time of day and the duration of movements so that you have a clear reference to share with your healthcare professional.

Creating a checking routine

Try to establish a daily routine in which you take the time to focus solely on your baby's movements. Make sure you are in a calm, comfortable environment to clearly perceive each stir.

The importance of hydration and nutrition

Maintaining good nutrition and adequate hydration is crucial for your baby's healthy development. Drink enough water and eat regularly to avoid any risk of dehydration or low blood sugar, which could affect foetal movements.

Special cases and additional precautions

Multiple pregnancies

In the case of multiple pregnancies, monitoring the movements of all babies can be more complicated. It is particularly important to remain vigilant and to report any notable changes to your doctor immediately.

Specific medical conditions

If you have a pre-existing medical condition such as gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia, regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor not only the baby's movements but also to ensure overall health.

Emotional support and stress management

Towards the end of pregnancy, anxiety and stress are common. Taking the time to practise relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga or meditation can truly help. Sharing your concerns with your partner, family, or close friends will also provide invaluable moral support.