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Pregnancy is often a time of joy and anticipation. However, it can also bring moments of worry, especially regarding your baby’s activity. One of the most common questions we hear at Athena Women’s Clinic is, “Is my baby moving enough?” or “Reduced Fetal Movements”
Consequently, understanding how we check your baby’s wellbeing is vital for your peace of mind. One of the primary tools we use to reassure you is CTG Monitoring.
In this post, we explain what a CTG scan is, why it is important, and specifically what you should do if you notice a change in your baby’s movements.
Cardiotocography (CTG), often called a “trace,” is a non-invasive method of listening to and recording your baby’s heartbeat. Furthermore, it monitors your uterus for any contractions or irritability.
During a CTG scan pregnancy check, we place two sensors on your abdomen using soft, elastic belts.
The machine prints out a continuous graph (a trace) that our doctors review immediately. Therefore, you get instant feedback about your baby’s health.
Our private monitoring room provides a calm environment for checking your baby’s heart rate and movements.
You will likely start feeling your baby move between 16 and 24 weeks. Eventually, you will learn your baby’s unique pattern of waking and sleeping. This in return erases the big doubt “Is My Baby Moving Enough?”
Reduced fetal movement is a significant indicator of your baby’s wellbeing. If a baby is unwell or not receiving enough oxygen, they may conserve energy by moving less.
Please remember:
Trust your instincts. Specifically, you should contact Athena Women’s Clinic or your maternity hospital immediately if:
High-Risk Factors: You have high blood pressure or diabetes requiring regular fetal monitoring.Moreover, do not wait until the next day. A quick CTG monitoring session can confirm that your baby is happy and healthy.
At our Bentley clinic, we prioritise your comfort. Unlike a busy hospital ward, our monitoring room is quiet and private.
However, if the doctor has any concerns, they may recommend a further ultrasound or refer you to the hospital for closer observation.
First, find a quiet and comfortable space. Next, lie down on your left side. Consequently, this position maximizes healthy blood flow to your baby. Then, focus entirely on your stomach for two full hours. Specifically, you should feel at least ten distinct movements during this time. However, always trust your own maternal instincts. Therefore, call our Bentley clinic immediately if you feel worried. Essentially, our GPs provide expert CTG monitoring in Perth to check your baby’s heartbeat.
Naturally, every single pregnancy feels entirely unique. Initially, early movements feel like delicate butterfly flutters. Alternatively, some women describe them as tiny gas bubbles popping. Later, as your baby grows, these sensations change dramatically. Specifically, you will feel distinct kicks, strong rolls, and sharp jabs. Furthermore, you might even feel a rhythmic tapping sensation. Usually, this rhythmic tapping means your baby simply has hiccups!
Crucially, babies absolutely do not have “quiet days” to rest. Indeed, this is a very dangerous myth. Naturally, babies sleep for short, regular cycles. However, their overall movement pattern must remain consistent every single day. Consequently, a sudden drop in movement requires urgent medical attention. Therefore, never wait until tomorrow if you notice reduced fetal movements today. Instead, contact us for immediate CTG monitoring in Perth. Ultimately, we always prefer to check and offer you complete peace of mind.
Interestingly, where you feel kicks often reveals your baby’s exact position. First, a head-down baby usually kicks high near your ribs. Conversely, a breech baby will kick lower down near your pelvis. Your placenta position heavily affects what you feel. Specifically, an anterior placenta acts like a thick front cushion. Consequently, it might muffle the kicks at the front of your stomach. Regardless, you should always feel a familiar, daily pattern of movement.
It is always better to be safe. Because we are a GP-led clinic, we can provide medical-grade fetal monitoring without the long wait times of an emergency department.
If you are worried about reduced fetal movements, please do not use home dopplers for reassurance, as they can be misleading. Instead, rely on professional medical assessment.
Call (08) 6116 1285 immediately to speak with our team or book an urgent appointment online. Contact us for more information.
We are thrilled to announce that our state-of-the-art imaging suite is opening very soon at Athena Women’s Clinic in Bentley. Whether you need a pregnancy ultrasound or a pelvic scan, you will soon have access to comfortable, GP-led care right here in our clinic.
If you have a referral or anticipate needing an ultrasound in Perth, reach out to our team now Or Call us at (08) 6116 1285