Ever felt like your baby’s practicing their best salsa moves in your womb? Sometimes, it’s a swift kick to the ribs, other times a gentle ripple across your belly. And, weirdly enough, it all seems to amp up between those pesky contractions. You’re not alone.
It’s completely natural to wonder what’s behind all that hustle and wiggle just before(or during labor). We’ll get into the big “whys” behind your baby’s thrilling in-utero gymnastics.
Whether they’re turning, stretching, or just letting you know they’re as ready to meet you as you are to meet them, I’m here to put your mind at ease with some reassuring science-backed tidbits.
Is it normal for a baby to move in between contractions?
Of course, it’s perfectly normal. When your baby wiggles, kicks, or squirms in between those contractions, it usually means they’re awake and active, which is a positive sign of their well-being.
The contractions squeeze your womb and encourage your baby to steer into a position ready for birth. And so, whenever there’s a brief, sudden pause in between these contractions, your little one’s probably stretching or repositioning to get comfortable for the journey ahead.
It can be pretty reassuring to feel these movements. More like your baby is giving you a little nudge to say, “Hey, I’m in here, and I’m doing just fine!”
But, if there’s something that feels off, not adding up, or if you notice a huge change in their movement patterns, don’t hesitate to talk it out with your OB-GYN.
What Are Some Reasons Your Baby Is Moving Like Crazy In Between Contractions?
Well, strap in(or rather, grab a comfy pillow), and let me take you through some reasons your tiny dancer might be grooving away during those breaks in the action.
Don’t worry; it’s all part of the wonderfully wild ride that brings a new life into the world!
Your Baby Is Stretching Those Tiny Limbs
As the body prepares for birth during contractions, spaces open up, and it’s as if the walls of their tiny home become a bit stretchier. What’s a baby to do with all this extra “room” during those breaks? Stretch those teeny limbs, of course!
It’s like suddenly getting a little extra wiggle room in a snug sleeping bag. When contractions ease off, your baby might take the opportunity to do a full-body stretch, and you get to feel all those pokes and wiggles.
This squirmy behavior is not just cute, but it’s also a wonderful sign. It signals an active, healthy baby. It’s their way of giving you a thumbs-up, letting you know all is well as they gear up for the journey ahead(labor, I mean).
Your Baby Is Reacting to the Squeeze
Think of an instance where you’re put into a cozy, cushy room that occasionally gets a little squeeze, making the room a bit smaller. That’s pretty much what happens to your baby during contractions.
The walls of their comfy home (a.k.a. your uterus) tighten a bit and then release. Now, when that squeeze relaxes, they suddenly have a bit more room to get about. And guess what? They take full advantage of it!
This ‘reaction to the squeeze’ is your little one’s way of stretching out those tiny limbs and screaming, “Ouu, that’s better!”
Braxton Hicks contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions (also, false labor) are sort of like your body’s way of saying, “Let’s get ready to rumble!” but in a more rehearsal kind of way.
They are practice contractions to prep your body for the big day. And can be quite uncomfortable, though, like a band of tightness wrapping around your belly. But they’re totally normal.
When your body flexes those muscles during a Braxton Hicks squeeze, your little one might be momentarily squished—imagine someone giving you a gentle bear hug.
Your baby’s response? A few jabs, kicks, or turns, which is their way of saying, “Hey, I felt that!” Consider this movement a good sign. It means your baby is active and reacting to the sensations around them. It’s their first exercise routine!
So while the contractions might be false alarms and not quite the signal that labor is starting, your baby doesn’t know the difference and is just responding naturally to the tight hug of your uterus.
It’s a Healthy Sign of Well-being
This burst of activity is akin to us getting up for a good stretch after sitting down for too long. It just feels right. For your baby, those moments of stretching and kicking are their way of saying, “All good in here; thanks for checking!” It’s their thumbs up to you and your doctor that they’re feeling fit and lively.
Research tells us that active babies in the womb are often a marker of healthy development. Each swish, roll, and kick is like a little signal flare, indicating that things are moving along just as they should be.
As a midwife, this is a kind of activity I always love to hear about. And it’s the same for every doctor or birth expert as it suggests that the baby is getting a good, healthy start in life.
So, next time your belly turns into a dance floor, remember to smile. It’s a beautiful, natural, and utterly fascinating part of the pregnancy journey.
Your baby is not just moving—they’re thriving. They are growing and, of course, giving you little high-fives from the inside.
How about if baby is being overly active? Could there be something wrong? What Do I DO?
I’ve always said that an active baby is typically a healthy baby. Those vigorous kicks? They’re a sign your little one is getting stronger.
However, I also believe there’s a wide range of ‘normal’ when it comes to baby movements. Just like grown-ups, babies have varied levels of activity, and some are simply(and naturally) more wiggly than others.
It’s like having a variety of personality types at a dance party – some are bouncing all over the dance floor, while others may sway gently to the rhythm.
If the movements become too intense, or you feel like it’s less of a tap dance and more of a full-on parade in there, it can be good to check in with the experts—your healthcare provider.
An increase in fetal activity can sometimes be a response to changes in your own activity, the foods you eat, or just a spike in your little one’s energy levels. Yet, it’s always better to be on the safe side if things seem off to you.
If your baby’s hyperactive phase gets you contemplating the need for a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your belly, here’s what you can do:
Track the Patterns
Babies, even before they grace us with their presence, have sleep-wake cycles and respond to various stimuli. By paying attention to when and how your baby moves, you might start to notice patterns. Is it after you’ve had a spicy taco fest? Or during your bedtime when you’re trying to grab some Zs?
Tracking these movements is like piecing together a puzzle. It gives you insight into your baby’s health and well-being. Through this simple activity, you’re also building a bond with your baby, becoming attuned to their little quirks and behaviors.
So, how do you track baby’s movements? You can go old-school with a pen and notebook, jotting down movements as you feel them, or use one of many available apps designed for tracking fetal movement. Whatever floats your boat!
Pick a Time. Most moms find it helpful to choose a particular time of day (or after certain meals) when their baby is most active. This consistency makes it easier to track patterns over time.
You’d also want to count the kicks. Pay attention to the kicks, rolls, and punches. You might find that your baby is more of a morning person or perhaps a night owl like you.
Besides counting kicks, note down any other observations. Is your baby responding to your voice, a specific type of music, or even the light shining on your belly?
Once you’re able to track these movement patterns, you might begin to notice what stimulates your baby into a round of spirited gymnastics or what calms them down to a gentle waltz.
It’s all fun and games until it’s not, right? If you notice a weird change in the pattern or frequency of it, don’t hesitate to chat your OB-GYN.
Stay calm and lounge on
It might sound simple, but lounging can be an art form. Find the comfiest spot in your house—perhaps a hammock, a couch, or a bed adorned with pillows—and let yourself relax.
Resting isn’t just a blissful escape; it’s actually beneficial for you and the little gymnast in your belly. Sometimes, your chill vibes can soothe your baby’s enthusiasm to a gentle nuzzle.
Use this active time as an opportunity to bond with your baby. Gently rub your belly and chat with your tiny mover and shaker. Studies suggest that babies can recognize their parent’s voices even from inside the womb—how incredible is that?
While you’re lounging, keep a glass of water and some healthy snacks within arm’s reach. Staying hydrated is key to maintaining a serene state, and you’re also giving your baby a hydrating high-five.
Have some almonds, fruit, or yogurt to maintain steady energy levels for both you and your active little one. Now, most of the time, a very active baby is a sign of a healthy and happy one.
However, if your maternal instincts feel like something is different, or you notice a change in movement patterns, don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider, as I mentioned already. It’s always better to be on the safe side; plus they’re there to support you and your rock star baby.
Baby Moving Like Crazy In Between Contractions: THIS IS A WRAP
Bear in mind that an active baby during childbirth, especially in between those intense contractions, is generally a positive sign.
It’s a little nudge (or a vigorous kick!) showing that your baby is alert and responding to the rhythmic changes of your body as it prepares for their grand entrance into the world. Each movement can be reassuring, a sign that your little one is getting ready to meet you face-to-face!
If the activity ever feels overwhelming, or if anything seems out of the ordinary, never hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider. They are there to assure your peace of mind, ensuring everything is tracking fantastically.
References:
News-Medical (Signs Labor Has Begun) & UT Southern Medical Center (False alarm: Braxton Hicks contractions vs. true labor)
