Publications
Review: Reduced fetal movements
Reduced fetal movements in pregnancy is common, creates anxiety for both women and clinicians, and while it can be a sign of problems in the pregnancy or have no cause, it has an association with stillbirth.
- Authors
Julia Unterscheider, Keelin O'Donoghue
- Year
- 2009
- Journal Name
- The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
- Category
- Journal Article
- Keywords
- Stillbirth
- Full Citation
Unterscheider J, Horgan R, O'Donoghue K, Greene R. Reduced fetal movements. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist. 2009;11:245-251. https://doi.org/10.1576/toag.11.4.245.27527.
- Link to Publication
- https://doi.org/10.1576/toag.11.4.245.27527
Abstract
A reduction of fetal movements causes concern and anxiety, both for the mother and obstetrician, and is a common reason for referral to hospital. Decreased fetal movements affect up to 15% of pregnancies and this review examines the evidence around underlying causes, assessment and management. The perception of reduced movements is highly subjective to the mother but it has clinical significance as a predictor of adverse pregnancy outcome - therefore any concerns should be taken seriously by clinicians and assessed appropriately. There are various tests to provide reassurance on the baby’s wellbeing but this can lead to over investigation of healthy pregnancies. When a woman presents with this problem, it is important consider which babies might be at higher risk of stillbirth. Assessment of the pregnant woman and the mother and baby should be standardised within the maternity hospital/unit.