Baby hiccups in the womb are considered to be fairly normal. Here are the reasons for them and when to see a doctor.
Baby hiccups in the womb are normal in most cases
Pregnant mothers notice different movements of the fetus as they grow and these movements increase every trimester. Kicking, twisting, legs lifting and even baby hiccups in the womb are experienced by pregnant moms, which is normal. But does the fetus really hiccup in the womb? What is the reason for a hiccup in a fetus?
Why does the baby hiccup in the womb?
Fetal hiccups are difficult to diagnose. However, a pregnant mother may find that hiccups follow a certain pattern. Some describe it as something like a heartbeat that resembles muscle spasms. Fetal hiccups are usually felt from 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. The first fetal movement will be rapid. Factors such as the placenta’s condition make it easier for the pregnant mother to feel this move earlier. Maternal weight can also play an important role because people with less weight around the abdomen are likely to feel kicked and other fetal movements sooner.
What is the cause of baby hiccups in the womb?
Doctors do not know the reason for the baby hiccups in the womb. It is good to know that not all babies get hiccups in their mother’s womb, but some may do so regularly. Some theories suggest that fetal hiccups are associated with fetal lung growth, although this theory has not yet been established. The ability of the fetus to inhale and exhale amniotic fluid and hiccups is said to be a good indication of proper diaphragm growth. This movement indicates the activation of the diaphragm nerve. In addition to breathing, the fetus is sucking in the womb. All of these activities can lead to baby hiccups in the womb.
Are the baby hiccups in the womb normal?
Doctors believe hiccups in the womb are normal. However, every pregnancy is unique and there is no rule that it is normal to have a hiccup at all times. Some mothers experience hiccups several times a day and others do not. Although it is difficult to identify a baby’s hiccups in the mother’s womb, it is a good sign and is a natural part of pregnancy. Rarely, however, hiccups can be a sign of a pregnancy problem. After the 32nd week of pregnancy, the pregnant woman usually does not notice the hiccup every day. A woman who feels regular baby hiccups more than 4 times a day after 28 weeks of gestation should see a doctor.
When is the baby hiccups in the womb dangerous?
While persistent hiccups do not necessarily mean problems, they can also be a sign of umbilical pressure or prolapse. The blood and oxygen that need to reach the fetus will stop in these conditions.
Prolapse or cord compression can have the following effects:
- Reduce fetal heart rate
- Reduce fetal blood pressure
- Occurrence of carbon dioxide in fetal blood
- Brain problems
- The stillbirth
Further evidence is needed to ensure that long-term baby hiccups can cause problems. A woman who is concerned about hiccups should consult a doctor. To be sure, the doctor can examine the fetus. If the cord is a problem, the specialist can remove the cord pressure by taking action.
In which weeks of pregnancy do baby hiccups in the womb occur?
As previously mentioned, baby hiccups in the womb occur between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation. Some women describe their initial sense of baby hiccups in the womb as something like butterfly wings. As pregnancy progresses, women can identify the movement and notice whether baby hiccups in the womb occur during the day or night. Most women in the second or third trimester become aware of the baby hiccups in the womb, although some babies do not hiccup in the womb at all.
How to stop baby hiccups in the womb
Keeping the body hydrated can reduce these movements. While the baby hiccups in the womb can distract you, it is not painful and does not take more than 15 minutes. Fetal movements can be uncomfortable and can disturb the mother’s rest and sleep. Therefore, the following points can somewhat reduce the discomfort of fetal movement:
- Lying to the left of the body
- Using a pillow between legs to reduce spine pressure
- Having a varied and healthy diet
- Enough and safe exercise and mobility
- Drinking plenty of water
