What is the reason for reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks?
As pregnancy progresses, many expectant mothers will pay special attention to changes in fetal movement, especially in the third trimester. Recently, the topic of "reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks" has triggered extensive discussions on major maternal and infant forums and social platforms. This article will combine the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days to provide you with a detailed analysis of the possible causes of reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks and provide scientific advice.
1. Common causes of reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks

Fetal movement is an important indicator of fetal health, but reduced fetal movement in the third trimester may be caused by a variety of factors. The following are common reasons:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| The fetus enters the pelvis | Around 38 weeks, the fetus may begin to enter the pelvis, and the space for movement is reduced, resulting in a decrease in the frequency of fetal movements. |
| fetal sleep cycle | Prolonged fetal sleep time, especially in the third trimester, may be manifested by decreased fetal movement. |
| Decreased placental function | Aging or reduced function of the placenta may result in insufficient oxygen supply to the fetus and reduced activity. |
| Pregnant women are less active | Pregnant women who are less active or stay in the same position for a long time may affect the perception of fetal movement. |
| Reduced amniotic fluid volume | Reduced amniotic fluid in late pregnancy may limit the fetus' range of motion. |
2. How to judge whether reduced fetal movement is normal
Decreased fetal movement may be normal, but it may also be a sign of fetal distress. Here's how to tell:
| method | Operation |
|---|---|
| Fetal movement counting | Count fetal movements at a fixed time every day. The normal value is 3-5 times per hour. If it is less than 3 times, you need to be vigilant. |
| Observation after stimulation | After patting the abdomen or drinking a cold drink, observe whether the fetus responds. |
| hospital examination | Check the fetal condition through fetal heart rate monitoring or B-ultrasound. |
3. Recent hot discussions and expert advice
In the past 10 days of online discussions, many expectant mothers shared their own experiences and concerns. Here are popular opinions and expert advice:
1.Netizens experience sharing: Some mothers said that reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks is a normal phenomenon, especially after the fetus enters the pelvis; however, some mothers sought medical treatment in time due to reduced fetal movement and avoided accidents.
2.doctor advice: Experts emphasize that the reduction of fetal movement in late pregnancy requires great attention, especially if it suddenly decreases or disappears, you should seek medical treatment immediately.
3.scientific monitoring: It is recommended to use fetal movement recording APP or record manually to ensure accurate data.
4. Countermeasures and precautions
If fetal movement is found to be reduced, the following measures can be taken:
| measures | Description |
|---|---|
| Change body position | Lying on the left side can improve blood supply to the placenta and may increase fetal movement. |
| appropriate activities | Walking or light exercise may stimulate fetal activity. |
| Seek medical attention promptly | If fetal movement continues to decrease or disappear, you need to seek medical examination immediately. |
5. Summary
Decreased fetal movement at 38 weeks may be normal in late pregnancy, but it may also be a sign of fetal health problems. Expectant mothers should learn to monitor fetal movements scientifically and seek medical treatment in a timely manner based on their own conditions. Although experience sharing on the Internet has certain reference value, individual differences are large, and ultimately the advice of professional doctors must prevail.
I hope this article can help you better understand the reasons for reduced fetal movement at 38 weeks and take reasonable countermeasures. I wish you and your baby good health and safety!
check the details
check the details