Fetal Movement, Contractions, and Ultrasound Safety During Pregnancy

Fetal movement? Uterine contractions? Ultrasound?

Hello Dr.
Lu,
I am currently about 18 to 19 weeks pregnant with my first child.
Is it normal not to feel any fetal movement at this stage? A few days ago, after working the night shift, I suddenly experienced tight and painful sensations in my lower abdomen, especially when walking.
However, after resting and sleeping, the discomfort subsided.
Could this be uterine contractions? Is the baby okay?
Additionally, does ultrasound have any effects on the fetus, or is it related to the frequency of the scans? How many scans are considered safe? The older generation tends to oppose ultrasound examinations during pregnancy, but I believe they should not have any negative effects.
Thank you!

Wen Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/03/07

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

In a first pregnancy, it is common to feel fetal movement around the 20th to 21st week, which is typically around five months.
Therefore, not feeling fetal movement at this stage is normal.
The tight and painful sensation in the lower abdomen is indeed due to uterine contractions; however, as long as there is no accompanying vaginal bleeding, these contractions usually subside on their own and do not affect the fetus, so please rest assured.
Ultrasound itself does not contain radiation, and extensive research by experts both domestically and internationally over the decades has shown that ultrasound is very safe.
Frequent ultrasound examinations do not impact the fetus, so there is no need for concern.

Reply Date: 2002/03/07

More Info

Hello! It's great that you're reaching out with your questions about fetal movement, contractions, and ultrasound safety during pregnancy. Let's address each of your concerns in detail.

Firstly, regarding fetal movement, it's important to note that during the 18 to 19 weeks of pregnancy, many first-time mothers may not yet feel consistent fetal movements. Typically, fetal movements start to become noticeable between 18 to 25 weeks, but this can vary significantly from one pregnancy to another. If you are not feeling any movement yet, it may simply be that your baby is still small and has plenty of room to move around, making it difficult for you to feel those movements. However, if you have concerns, especially if you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider.

Now, concerning the abdominal tightness and pain you experienced, it could be related to a few factors. It might be Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often referred to as "practice contractions." These can occur as early as the second trimester and are usually not a cause for concern unless they become painful or frequent. Fatigue from working night shifts can also contribute to discomfort. If the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding or significant changes in fetal movement, you should seek medical attention promptly.

As for ultrasound safety, current research indicates that ultrasound is generally considered safe for both the mother and the fetus when performed by trained professionals. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the baby and does not involve radiation, which makes it a preferred method for monitoring fetal development. The concerns from older generations about ultrasound exposure are largely based on outdated information. While it is true that unnecessary or excessive ultrasound exposure should be avoided, routine ultrasounds performed during pregnancy for monitoring purposes are deemed safe. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supports the use of ultrasound for necessary evaluations and screenings.

Regarding the frequency of ultrasounds, most pregnancies will involve at least one or two routine ultrasounds, with additional scans as needed based on individual circumstances. There is no specific limit on the number of ultrasounds that can be performed, but they should be medically justified. If you have specific concerns about the number of ultrasounds you are receiving, discussing this with your healthcare provider can provide clarity and reassurance.

In summary, it’s normal not to feel fetal movements yet, especially as a first-time mother. The abdominal discomfort you experienced could be related to various benign factors, including fatigue or Braxton Hicks contractions. Ultrasound is a safe tool for monitoring your pregnancy, and routine scans are generally recommended. Always feel empowered to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, as they can offer personalized advice and reassurance based on your unique situation. Wishing you a healthy and happy pregnancy!

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