Reduced Foetal Movements

Question 1

What are risk factors?

Answer 1

Posture- changes in lie
Distraction- if busy may not notice as much
Placental position- if anterior may have less feeling
Medication- can cause reduced movements
Obesity
Amniotic fluid volume- extremes of fluid can cause reduction

Question 2

What investigations are needed?

Answer 2

> 28 weeks
1) Handheld Doppler to confirm heartbeat
2) If no heartbeat then immediate US
3) If heartbeat then CTG for minimum 20 mins to assess foetal HR
4) If ongoing concerns despite CTG then US

24-28 weeks
- handheld doppler

If movements not felt by 24 weeks then refer to foetal medicine unit