Feel Your Baby’s First Flutters

What to expect

Your baby’s tiny muscles are getting stronger, and they’re practicing all sorts of movements. You might start feeling those subtle flutters now, like butterflies or bubbles in your belly. It’s called quickening, and it’s a magical milestone.

Their sense of touch is developing, and they’re exploring their tiny world. Your baby’s ears are forming cartilage, and they might start recognizing your voice if they haven’t already. Talk or sing to them, they’re listening!

What’s growing this week?

• Muscles. Your baby’s flexing arms, legs, and even facial muscles.
• Ears. Cartilage is forming, and those tiny ears are moving toward their final position.
• Digestive system. Meconium, their first poop, is starting to accumulate.
• Protective coating. Vernix, a waxy layer, is forming on their skin to keep it soft.

Your body’s adjusting too. Your uterus is now about the size of a cantaloupe, and you might notice your belly popping more. Alongside those baby movements, you could feel round ligament pain as everything stretches to make room.

Things to be aware of

Round ligament pain. A sharp tug low in your belly or along your sides is common as your ligaments stretch. It’s normal, but mention it to your provider if it’s persistent or severe.

What’s normal, what’s not

• Normal: Mild cramping, occasional dizziness, or a stuffy nose.
• Not normal: Severe pain, bleeding, or vision changes. Call your provider right away if you experience these.

Leg cramps might start bothering you, especially at night. Stretching your calves before bed can help. If you’re struggling with sleep, try a pregnancy pillow for support.

What might happen

Around this time, many providers schedule the anatomy scan, typically between weeks 18 and 22. This detailed ultrasound checks your baby’s growth and development, including their heart, brain, and organs. It’s also a chance to learn the sex if you choose!

Coming up

• Anatomy scan. Get ready to see your baby in clearer detail.
• Baby movements. Those flutters will become more pronounced in the coming weeks.
• Pelvic pressure. As your baby grows, you might feel more pressure in your pelvis.

Feeling those first movements is like a secret hello.