Is fetal movement tremor a sign of the baby's convulsion?

Jan 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I have been feeling fetal movements accompanied by tremors in my abdomen. May I ask, are fetal movement tremors a sign of the baby having spasms?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

The trembling felt during fetal movement is not necessarily a sign of fetal convulsions. In most cases, it is a normal fetal movement caused by strong activity of the fetus within the uterine cavity.

Normally, fetal movements include various actions such as kicking, turning over, and even hiccuping, which may be perceived by the pregnant woman as movements or tremors of differing intensity. Particularly during the middle to late stages of pregnancy, as the fetus grows and space within the uterus decreases, these movements may become more noticeable and even create an illusion of trembling. Specifically, the fetus may extend limbs, perform swallowing and breathing motions, and especially during limb development, may hit against the uterine wall, causing the mother to feel trembling and distinct fetal movement. These fetal movements are usually rhythmic, becoming more active and intense as the weeks of pregnancy progress.

However, if the pregnant woman perceives the fetal movements to be abnormally frequent or intense, or if there is a sudden and significant change in the pattern of movement, this may indicate a condition that requires attention. For example, if fetal movement suddenly decreases or stops, it could be a signal of fetal oxygen deprivation or other problems, and medical evaluation should be sought immediately. Additionally, when the fetus experiences abnormal conditions within the uterine cavity, such as oxygen deprivation, this may manifest as unusual or excessive fetal activity. Moreover, low calcium levels in the fetus caused by calcium deficiency in the pregnant woman may also cause fetal movements that resemble spasms.