New Movements Matter campaign launched
Parents-to-be are being reminded of the importance of taking notice of baby’s movements during pregnancy, in a new campaign from Gloucestershire Local Maternity and Neonatal System.
The #MovementsMatter campaign aims to encourage those who are pregnant, and their family and friends, to call Maternity Triage if they have any concerns about their baby’s movements.
Dawn Morrall, Assistant Director of Midwifery at Gloucestershire Local Maternity and Neonatal System says:
“You will start to feel baby’s movements from around 16 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. From this point, baby should keep on moving. You will start to spot a pattern and the movements should not slow down, stop or change at any point. If you are worried for any reason, pick up the phone to Maternity Triage immediately.
Changes in a baby’s normal pattern of movements can be a sign that they are unwell, and that help is needed urgently.
Lisa Stephens, Director of Midwifery at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust says:
“We sometimes hear from some service users that they don’t want to bother us, or they have called about a change in movements before and feel like they shouldn’t call again. Our message is clear, if you are worried, pick up the phone. We would rather check you over and reassure you.
“If you know someone who is pregnant, please do urge them to call us if they have any concerns at all.”
Lisa continues:
“We do hear some outdated and incorrect advice shared sometimes, such as baby’s movements slowing down as they run out of room towards the end of pregnancy, or having a cold or fizzy drink to try and make baby move. These just are not true, and we would urge you to not wait, and to pick up the phone to Maternity Triage if you have any concerns.
The campaign also raises awareness of the dangers of using home Dopplers (handheld monitors used to listen to baby’s heartbeat) as reassurance.
Dr Christine Edwards, Clinical Lead Obstetrician at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital says “Even if you hear baby’s heartbeat on a Doppler, it doesn’t mean all is well. So if your baby’s movements change or you have any concerns, pick up the phone to Maternity Triage.
For more information and advice on baby’s movements, visit www.gloshospitals.nhs.uk/movements-matter
The Maternity Advice Line (Triage) number for Gloucestershire Royal Hospital is 0300 422 5541.