Fetal movements are the baby's main way of "communicating" with you in the third trimester. WHO emphasizes that pregnant women should know their baby's usual movement pattern and notice changes promptly.

What is typical

• First movements are often felt around 18-22 weeks, sometimes a little later in a first pregnancy
• By the third trimester, the baby usually has their own rhythm: active periods and sleep periods
• Babies are often more active in the evening, after meals, or when you are lying down

The main rule

A noticeable reduction in your baby's movements, or movements stopping, is a reason to contact your healthcare provider immediately, not wait until morning or the next visit.

This is not overreacting. A change in movements can be an early sign that the baby needs assessment, and checks such as CTG or ultrasound can be done quickly.

Do you need to count movements every day?

Formal daily counting, such as "10 movements in 2 hours", is not routinely recommended by WHO for healthy pregnancies: it has not clearly improved outcomes and can increase anxiety. Instead:

• Learn your baby's usual rhythm
• If movements seem reduced, lie on your side and observe calmly
• If activity does not return to normal within 1-2 hours, call your healthcare provider

Your healthcare provider may recommend individual movement counting if you have specific risk factors. If so, follow their plan.

When in doubt, it is always better to get checked.