Mums-to-be are being reminded that “movements matter” as Walsall Healthcare urges women who are over 25 weeks pregnant and concerned that their baby is moving less or differently, to get in touch urgently.
If you can’t feel your baby moving as often as usual this can be a sign that they are not well – it could mean they’ve got an infection or another problem. And seeking help sooner rather than later could save a baby’s life.
Laura Parsons, Community/Midwifery-Led Unit/Outpatients’ Matron, said: “Fetal movements may feel like a swish, a kick or a flutter and we’re asking women who are over 25 weeks pregnant “Can you feel it?”
“We want them to realise that movements matter and it’s really important if they notice a reduction or a change in these to contact us straight away.
“We understand that it is a difficult time for mums-to-be as restrictions are still in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic while we keep everyone as safe as possible. But this is a concern that they really shouldn’t ignore.
“Plus the anxiety of feeling something isn’t quite right won’t be any good for their health and wellbeing either.
“It’s much better to act swiftly so we can check that everything is OK and put their minds at rest. If a baby’s movements reduce or change it can be a sign that they are not well and we need to find out what – if anything – is wrong as soon as possible. While we don’t want to alarm pregnant women we must stress that letting us know quickly about any changes could save a baby’s life.”
Laura added: “Pregnant women who feel unwell or are experiencing any problems such as bleeding or pain should always get in touch with us. Our midwives and maternity staff are here to reassure and support and know how vulnerable you’re feeling.”
The focus on fetal movements is an important element of the Saving Babies’ Lives approach designed to support providers, commissioners and professionals to take action to reduce stillbirths. It supports the delivery of safer maternity care, as described by the National Maternity Review, in Better Births.