Is it normal for fetal movements to not be very frequent at 23 weeks?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

At 23 weeks, the fetus is still small and has relatively ample room to move, but its movements are generally weak. Some pregnant women may not be very sensitive to fetal movements and might perceive them as infrequent. If a woman feels several fetal movements each day, with no noticeable decrease in frequency, and prenatal checkups show normal fetal development, this situation is considered normal. As gestational age increases, fetal movements will gradually become more regular and pronounced.

Under normal circumstances, fetal movements at 23 weeks are not very frequent and without other abnormalities, which is usually considered normal. However, if there is a sudden decrease in fetal movement accompanied by abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding, abnormalities may exist and should be taken seriously. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice early. Detailed analysis is as follows:

At 23 weeks, the fetus is still relatively small, with ample space for movement but weaker strength. Some pregnant women may not be highly sensitive to fetal movements, so they might perceive fewer movements. As long as several fetal movements are felt each day, with no obvious decreasing trend, and prenatal checkups show normal fetal development, this condition is considered normal. As gestational age increases, fetal movements will gradually become more regular and noticeable.

If previously regular fetal movements suddenly decrease significantly (e.g., fewer than 10 movements within 12 hours), or if no fetal movement is felt for an extended period, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as pelvic pressure, abdominal pain, or vaginal bleeding, this may indicate problems such as fetal hypoxia in utero or developmental abnormalities. These situations fall outside the normal range; without timely intervention, fetal health could be affected, so prompt medical evaluation is necessary.

Pregnant women at 23 weeks can monitor fetal movements daily at fixed times and record approximate counts. Avoid strenuous activities and excessive fatigue, and maintain a regular routine. If any abnormal fetal movement is detected, do not delay—seek immediate medical attention for fetal heart rate monitoring and ultrasound examination to assess fetal well-being and follow the doctor’s recommendations accordingly.

View All

What should be done if the fetal umbilical cord is wrapped around the neck twice?

For a fetus with two loops of umbilical cord around the neck, management includes enhanced fetal movement monitoring, regular prenatal check-ups and assessments, maintaining proper body positions, avoiding strenuous activities, and medical interventions when necessary. Immediate medical attention is required if abnormal fetal movements occur or prenatal evaluations indicate fetal distress in utero. Count fetal movements at fixed times each day; normal frequency is 3–5 movements per hour, and no fewer than 10 movements within 12 hours.

View Full Answer

Why is fetal movement more frequent at night than during the day?

Under normal circumstances, increased fetal movement at night compared to daytime may be caused by factors such as the fetus's sleep cycle, maternal attention levels, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, or fetal hypoxia in utero. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain regular作息, avoid staying up late, follow a balanced diet, and manage body weight appropriately.

View Full Answer

What causes a pulsating sensation in the abdomen during the late stages of pregnancy at night?

In general, a pulsating sensation in the abdomen during the third trimester at night may be caused by fetal hiccups, active fetal movements, false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks), uterine ligament stretching, or signs of preterm labor. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital. In daily life, pregnant women should monitor and record fetal movements and contractions, avoid strenuous exercise and excessive fatigue, and maintain a balanced diet.

View Full Answer

What does it mean at 20 weeks of pregnancy that the fetal head is located at the top of the uterus?

In general, at 20 weeks of gestation, the fetal head being located at the fundus usually indicates a breech presentation, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. There is no need for deliberate intervention to adjust fetal position, and blind use of postural correction methods should be avoided. Count fetal movements at a fixed time each day to monitor whether fetal activity is regular. Attend routine prenatal checkups and use ultrasound to monitor changes in fetal position and fetal development.