PREGNANT WOMEN LYING ON THEIR LEFT SIDE EXPERIENCE MORE FETAL MOVEMENTS

Counting fetal movements is an exciting experience for expectant mothers, as it signifies the presence and growth of a new life within them. Many first-time mothers often wonder if it’s better to feel fetal movements more on the left side or the right side.  

1. What is fetal movement?

Fetal movement, or 'quickening,' refers to the baby’s movements like rolling, kicking, or stretching that mothers can feel during pregnancy.  
Doctors monitor fetal movements to assess the baby’s health. A decrease in movements may indicate a health issue, such as fetal distress or, in severe cases, intrauterine death.  

Most mothers start feeling their baby move around the 20th week of pregnancy. During the second trimester, movements may be sporadic but become more regular by weeks 27–32.  

In the early stages, movements are subtle, resembling flutters or a gentle squirming sensation. In the later months of pregnancy, movements become stronger and more frequent.  

Between weeks 30 and 38, fetal movements peak at a cycle of 10–30 movements within a 12-hour period. This is a critical indicator of the baby’s well-being.

However, some mothers notice their baby moving predominantly on the left side, while others feel more activity on the right.  

2. More movements on the left side

Initially, fetal movements can be felt across the lower abdomen as the baby has ample room to move freely.  
In the later stages, as the baby grows larger and the uterine space becomes limited, the baby usually adopts a head-down position, preparing for birth.  
When the baby’s head points downward, their buttocks rest at the top of the uterus, and their back often aligns with either the left or right side of the womb. When the baby’s back rests on the right side, their arms and legs face the left, causing mothers to feel more movements on the left side of their belly. 

3. More movements on the right side

Similarly, if the baby’s back aligns with the left side of the womb, their arms and legs will point toward the right.  

In this case, the mother will predominantly feel movements, kicks, and punches on the right side of her abdomen. 

4. Does fetal movement on the left side indicate gender?

While fetal movements are commonly noticed around the 20th week of pregnancy, this timing may vary depending on whether the mother is carrying her first or subsequent child. There is no scientific proof that fetal movements on one side can determine the baby’s gender. However, some suggest that mothers who feel early and strong movements are more likely to be carrying boys. Male fetuses (XY chromosomes) may exhibit more pronounced and active movements than female fetuses (XX chromosomes).
It is often said that baby boys move more energetically, while baby girls tend to move more gently and smoothly. Many mothers report boys delivering strong, sudden kicks and moving around energetically, while girls tend to shift gently and more predictably.  

To ensure a smooth and safe delivery, pregnant women should familiarize themselves with the following:  

• Labor process: Understand the stages of labor, its duration, and factors affecting the choice between vaginal delivery and cesarean section.  
• Pain management during childbirth: Learn methods to alleviate pain and reduce psychological stress during labor.
• Proper breathing and pushing techniques: Use effective techniques to shorten labor and conserve energy during childbirth.  
• Postpartum uterine contractions: Manage postpartum uterine contractions to reduce discomfort.  
• Perineal care: Ensure proper care of perineal stitches to prevent infections and complications.  
• Timely postpartum checkups: Detect and address any complications such as retained placenta or gauze.  
• Newborn care: Prioritize the baby’s health during the first month after birth.
   

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