After the baby has dropped into the pelvis, where are fetal movements usually felt?

Oct 12, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
After engagement, fetal movements are usually felt around the navel area. Engagement refers to the process in late pregnancy when the fetus descends from the pelvic inlet into the pelvic cavity. During engagement, the position of the fetus changes as the head enters the pelvis, resulting in more limited space within the uterus. This may reduce the range of fetal movement, and the fetal head becomes fixed and less mobile.

After the baby has engaged (dropped into the pelvis), fetal movements are generally felt around the navel area. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Engagement refers to the process in late pregnancy when the fetus moves from the pelvic inlet into the pelvic cavity. During engagement, the position of the fetus changes as the head enters the pelvis, reducing the available space within the uterus. This limits the fetus's range of movement—the fetal head becomes fixed and less mobile, while limb movements continue. Since the limbs are typically positioned near the navel, pregnant women usually feel fetal movements around this area. Therefore, kicks are commonly experienced around the belly button. It should be noted that after engagement, the fetal head may exert pressure on surrounding organs, potentially causing symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, constipation, and edema. Symptomatic treatment under medical supervision is recommended.

Pregnant women are advised to closely monitor fetal heart rate and fetal movements after engagement. If symptoms such as abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding occur, prompt medical attention is recommended to prevent adverse outcomes.