What causes frequent fetal movements at 29 weeks of pregnancy?

Generally, frequent fetal movements at 29 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by factors such as the fetus's activity cycle, maternal eating or physical activity, umbilical cord around the neck, placental abruption, or gestational diabetes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor’s guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Fetal Activity Cycle: The fetus has its own sleep-wake cycles in utero. Movements are more frequent when the fetus is awake, typically lasting 20–40 minutes. No special intervention is needed. Monitor fetal movements by counting them three times daily (morning, afternoon, and evening), each for one hour. Normal fetal movement is 3–5 times per hour.

2. Maternal Eating or Physical Activity: After eating, elevated maternal blood glucose levels or mild physical activities such as walking may stimulate the fetus, leading to increased fetal movements. Rest appropriately after meals and avoid intense physical activity immediately afterward. Observe changes in fetal movement, which usually return to normal gradually.

3. Umbilical Cord Around the Neck: When the umbilical cord wraps around the fetal neck, it may cause temporary fetal hypoxia, resulting in increased fetal movements. Close monitoring of fetal movements is necessary. Follow medical advice for fetal heart rate monitoring. If hypoxia worsens, delivery via cesarean section may be required to prevent fetal asphyxia.

4. Placental Abruption: Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall compromises blood and oxygen supply to the fetus. Initially, this may present as increased fetal movements, followed by a decrease. Immediate bed rest is required. Follow medical instructions to use medications such as magnesium sulfate injection, ritodrine hydrochloride injection, or progesterone soft capsules to suppress uterine contractions.

5. Gestational Diabetes: Poorly controlled maternal blood glucose leads to high glucose levels that stimulate the fetus, causing frequent fetal movements. Adjust diet to reduce intake of high-sugar foods and follow medical advice to use insulin preparations such as insulin aspart injection, insulin lispro injection, or protamine zinc insulin injection to control blood glucose.

Maintain a regular daily routine, avoid excessive fatigue and emotional excitement, and eat a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition. If abnormal fetal movements occur—such as sudden increase followed by reduction—record them promptly and inform your doctor for timely management.