As an expectant parent, there’s a boatload of excitement and anticipation as you await the arrival of your little people.
Amidst the flutter of baby showers and nursery preparations, it’s essential to recognise what’s normal for your baby, even before they make their grand entrance into the world.
Understanding what’s normal for your baby in the womb isn’t just a fascinating journey, it’s crucial for their wellbeing. So let’s take a look at prenatal routines and learn what’s normal for your baby.
Understanding Your Baby’s Routine
One of the most magical aspects of pregnancy is feeling those tiny flutters and kicks from inside. These little movements are your baby’s way of communicating with you.
The count-the-kicks-method is a valuable tool for monitoring fetal activity. By setting aside a dedicated moment each day to focus on your baby’s movements you can gain insights into their routine and wellbeing. Remember what’s normal for your baby might be different from other pregnancies you might have had, so trust your instincts and pay attention to any changes.
Your questions answered live by senior midwife Louise Broadbridge. A workshop covering what to expect in the early days, coping with morning sickness and planning for your first antenatal appointment.
Your Baby’s Sleep Cycle
Just like us, unborn babies have their own sleep cycles. You might notice periods of increased activity followed by moments of calm. Learning your baby’s typical day can be both enlightening and comforting.
While some babies may be more active during the mornings, others may be party animals preferring evenings or late nights for a roll around. By paying attention to these patterns you can start forming a bond with your baby before they’re even born. It might even give you a clue into what to expect once they’re Earth side.
Recognising Signs of Distress
While most fetal movements are a sign of a healthy baby it’s essential to be aware of potential signs of distress. Any significant changes in your baby’s movements or a noticeable decrease in activity should prompt you to contact your midwife or healthcare provider. Trust your intuition and never hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re concerned. It’s so much better to err on the side of caution.
Learning Your Baby’s Preferences
Believe it or not, your baby is already developing preferences and even reactions to different stimuli from the outside world. Pay attention to how they respond to sounds, movements and your and family members' voices.
This not only poses as super interesting and insightful, but also can help you to tailor your interactions with them. Studies suggest that babies recognise and respond to familiar voices, so the earlier you start talking to your baby the more beneficial it could be.
Keeping Track of Routine Prenatal Checkups
Prenatal checkups are crucial not only important for you, they’re crucial for keeping tabs on your baby’s development. Your midwife or healthcare provider will likely ask about fetal movements and might perform additional tests or checks to make sure everything is progressing as it should.
Don’t hesitate to share any worries or concerns during these appointments. These visits provide an opportunity to ask for guidance on how to ensure the healthiest possible outcome for you and your baby.
Trusting Your Instincts and Seeking Support
As expectant parents, it’s natural to have moments of uncertainty. No matter how big or small, it’s always worth seeking support for your worries. What’s normal for your baby may vary, but your instincts as a parent are so important to follow. Building a support network can also help alleviate any anxieties you may have, allowing you to focus on the excitement of welcoming your new baby.
Understanding what’s normal for your baby isn’t just about monitoring their movements. It’s about forming a bond with the miracle growing inside of you.
By paying attention to patterns, preferences and reactions you’re building the foundation for a lifetime of love and understanding. Trust your parental instincts and remember that what’s normal for your baby is as unique as they are.
