Quickening - Definition & Explanation for Mothers

Table of Contents

Definition

Quickening, in the context of motherhood, refers to the first movements that a pregnant woman feels from the fetus inside her, typically between the 18th and 25th week of pregnancy. This sensation is often described as a fluttering or a gas-bubble-like feeling. It signifies that the fetus is moving and developing inside the uterus.

Key Takeaways

Quickening refers to the moment in pregnancy when the pregnant woman starts to feel or perceive fetal movements in the uterus.
It typically happens between 18-25 weeks of pregnancy. For women who have previously been pregnant, quickening may occur earlier.
Quickening is considered a milestone in pregnancy. It’s considered as an indication of the fetus’s wellbeing. However, lack of perceived movement doesn’t always indicate a problem, so any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Importance

The term “quickening” in motherhood is significant as it refers to the first movements of the fetus that the mother can physically feel.

This usually occurs around the 18th to 25th week of pregnancy.

Quickening is an essential milestone in pregnancy as it works as a reassurance for the mother that the baby is growing and developing properly.

Often termed as flutters, the sensation can also help to strengthen the bond between mother and child as it offers a tangible connection with the unborn baby.

Additionally, historically, quickening was used to legally define the point at which life was believed to begin.

Explanation

Quickening is one of the most exciting aspects of motherhood for many pregnant women as it is often the first physical sign that a woman is truly pregnant. The term, in the context of pregnancy, refers to the initial movement of the fetus that the mother can feel. It is an affirmation of the new life growing within her and serves as an intimate connection between the mother and the unborn child, making the whole experience more real.

This moment is often anticipated by expecting mothers as it is an incredible milestone in the pregnancy journey and reinforces the reality of the new life. In clinical practice, quickening is also used as a rudimentary yet important marker of fetal development. Even though it lacks precision since this experience is highly subjective and varies from woman to woman based on factors like the number of pregnancies, body mass index, and the position of the fetus, it is still significant.

This sensation of fetal movement can provide healthcare professionals with some information about the progression of the pregnancy. For instance, the absence of quickening by the 22nd week of gestation may serve as an indication to perform further investigations to ensure the pregnancy is progressing normally. Thus, the purpose of recognizing quickening is to get a rudimentary assessment of the baby’s well-being and the progression of the pregnancy.

Examples of Quickening

During a prenatal appointment, a pregnant woman expresses excitement to her doctor because she felt her baby move for the first-time. She describes it as a fluttering or bubbling sensation in her belly. This early perception of fetal movement is an example of quickening.

In a yoga class for pregnant women, a mother-to-be in her second trimester shares that she started to feel her baby kick and twist in her womb. This signifies quickening, an important milestone in her pregnancy journey.

In a novel, the protagonist who is an expectant mother experiences quickening. She mentions feeling a subtle movement which she initially mistakes for hunger or gas, then realizes they are her baby’s movements confirming her continuing healthy pregnancy.

FAQs on Quickening

What is Quickening?

Quickening refers to the first time a mother can feel the movements or kicks of the fetus in her womb. It is one of the most exciting milestones of pregnancy.

When can I expect to experience Quickening?

Most mothers usually start feeling the quickening between 18 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. However, if this is your first pregnancy, you might feel this a bit later as it takes time to understand the sensation.

Is Quickening an important milestone?

Yes, quickening is a significant milestone in your pregnancy. It not only is a sign that your baby is moving and active, but it also gives mothers their first true bonding experience with their baby.

What does Quickening feel like?

Quickening can feel like a fluttering, buzzing, or the sensation of a popcorn popping. Each woman’s experience can vary and it might take a few occurrences before you realize the sensation stems from your baby’s movements.

Should I be worried if I haven’t felt Quickening?

If you haven’t felt your baby move by 25 weeks, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider so they can make sure everything is okay. They may ask you questions about your baby’s movements.

Related Motherhood Terms

Maternity: The state of being a mother; motherhood.
Pregnancy: The condition or period of being pregnant.
Fetal Movement: The motion of a fetus inside the uterus, felt by the mother.
Gestation Period: The time during which a fetus develops inside the mother’s womb.
Antenatal Care: Prenatal care, or healthcare provided to a mother during pregnancy.

Sources for More Information

Mayo Clinic – Focused on medical education and research, it provides comprehensive information about quickening during pregnancy.
WebMD – A leading source of trustworthy and timely health and medical news and information which includes topics on pregnancy and quickening.
American Pregnancy Association – A national health organization committed to promoting reproductive and pregnancy wellness through education, support, advocacy, and community awareness.
Healthline – As a leading source for trustworthy and accurate health information, it verifies the medical accuracy of the health content to ensure it is up-to-date.