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Week 40 · Third Trimestermild

Fetal Movement at 40 Weeks Pregnant

Fetal movement is a reassuring sign of baby's wellbeing. Most women first feel movement (quickening) between 16–25 weeks. Monitoring fetal movement in the third trimester is important for detecting changes in fetal wellbeing.

👶 What's Happening at Week 40

Your baby is now the size of a small pumpkin.

  • The baby is fully developed and ready for life outside the womb.
  • Lungs are producing enough surfactant for independent breathing.
  • The skull bones are soft and can mold for passage through the birth canal.

🔬 Why You're Experiencing Fetal Movement at Week 40

  • The fetus begins moving early in pregnancy but movements are not felt until the uterus is large enough
  • First-time mothers typically feel movement later (18–25 weeks) than mothers who have been pregnant before (16–18 weeks)
  • A posterior placenta (on the back uterine wall) allows movement to be felt earlier
  • An anterior placenta (on the front uterine wall) cushions movements, making them harder to feel

💊 Relief Tips for Week 40

1
Kick CountingFrom 28 weeks, count 10 movements within 2 hours. If you feel fewer than 10, contact your provider.
2
Rest and FocusLying quietly on your side, especially in the evening, makes it easier to feel movements.
3
Cold Drink or SnackA cold sweet drink or a small snack can stimulate baby movement.
4
Flashlight StimulationShining a flashlight on the abdomen can prompt the baby to react and move.

📋 Other Week 40 Symptoms

Extreme pelvic pressureStrong Braxton Hicks or early laborCervical dilationExhaustion and impatienceLoose stools
See full Week 40 guide →

⚠️ Call Your Doctor If…

  • You have not felt any movement by 25 weeks
  • Baby's movements have significantly decreased or changed in character
  • You complete a kick count and get fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours after trying twice
  • You notice a sudden cessation of movement that feels different from quiet periods

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I first feel my baby move?

Most first-time mothers feel fluttery movements ('quickening') between 18–25 weeks. Experienced mothers may feel movement as early as 16 weeks.

What does baby movement feel like?

Early movement feels like flutters, bubbles, or gentle taps. As pregnancy progresses, movements become kicks, rolls, and stretches that are clearly identifiable.

Is it normal for baby movement to slow down near the due date?

The type of movement changes (less room for big kicks, more rolls and squirms) but the frequency should not significantly decrease. If you notice a marked reduction, contact your provider.

What is quickening?

Quickening is the term for the first movements a mother feels, typically described as gentle flutters or bubbles in the lower abdomen.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your OB/GYN or midwife about symptoms during pregnancy.