NCLEX Antepartum and Intrapartum Practice Test

Fetal movements, often referred to as "quickening," typically start to be felt by the mother between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation. This timeframe aligns with the developmental milestones of the fetus; by this point, the fetus has grown sufficiently to produce noticeable movements. For first-time mothers, the sensations can start around 20 weeks, while those who have been pregnant before may perceive these movements a little earlier, around 16 weeks.

Understanding the timeline for fetal movement is crucial for monitoring the health and development of the pregnancy. Not feeling movement by approximately 20 weeks may prompt healthcare providers to conduct further assessments to ensure that the fetus is well and that there are no complications. It's important for expectant mothers to recognize this timeline, as it helps them form a connection with the baby and contributes to maternal awareness of the baby's activity levels in the womb.