Warning signs & when to seek care
What should I do if my baby stops moving?
Go to hospital immediately — reduced or absent movements must be checked the same day.
Do not lie down and wait, drink cold water and hope, or wait for your next visit. Reduced movement can be the first sign that your baby is unwell, and monitoring can be done quickly.
At the facility your baby's heartbeat will be checked, often with a CTG tracing, and sometimes a scan.
What you can do
- Go in immediately, at any hour
- Take your maternity record with you
- Never wait until morning
When to seek care
- Fewer movements than your baby's normal pattern
- No movements at all
Reduced or absent fetal movements are an emergency — go to the nearest hospital immediately.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.