Fetal hiccups may start in the second or third trimester. But if they change suddenly or last a long time in later pregnancy, you may want to check in with a doctor.

Pregnancy is a time of constant change for both you and your growing baby.

Along with all the kicks and jabs, you may notice that your baby hiccups inside the womb. Is this normal?

Here’s what you need to know about baby hiccuping in the womb, and when to contact your doctor.

What’s going on with your baby?

Your baby meets many milestones before they’re born. Each stepping-stone gets them closer to being able to survive in the real world.

You’ll probably become aware of your little one’s movements by weeks 18 to 20. This is when fetal movement, also known as quickening, is often experienced for the first time.

Seasoned moms may feel quickening sooner in subsequent pregnancies. For others, it may take a bit longer, depending on factors like weight and placenta position.

On average, fetal movement can first be felt between weeks 13 and 25. It often starts as little butterfly kicks, or it might feel like popcorn popping in your belly. After a while, you’ll feel kicks, rolls, and nudges throughout the day.

Do you ever notice other movements, like rhythmic twitching? These motions may feel more like muscle spasms or other pulsing. But they might be fetal hiccups.

When to expect hiccups

You may start to notice fetal hiccups in your second or third trimester. Many moms start to feel these “jerky motions” in their sixth month of pregnancy. But like fetal movement, everyone starts to feel them at a different time.

Some babies get the hiccups several times a day. Others may not get them at all. The cause of hiccups isn’t well-understood. This goes for why they happen in kids and adults, too.

One theory is that fetal hiccups play a role in lung maturation. In most cases, this reflex is normal and just another part of pregnancy.

It’s important to note that fetal hiccups are, in general, considered a good sign. After week 32, though, it’s less common to experience fetal hiccups every day.

You may want to contact your doctor if your baby continues to hiccup daily after this point, with the episodes lasting over 15 minutes, or if your baby has three or more series of hiccups in a day.

Is it hiccups or kicking?

Moving around is the best way to determine if your baby has hiccups or is kicking. Sometimes, your baby might move if they’re uncomfortable in a certain position, or if you eat something hot, cold, or sweet that stimulates their senses.

You may feel these movements in different parts of your belly (top and bottom, side to side) or they may stop if you reposition yourself. These are likely just kicks.

If you’re sitting completely still and feel a pulsing or rhythmic twitching coming from one area of your belly, these might be baby’s hiccups. After a while, you’ll grow to know that familiar twitch.

Should I be concerned?

Hiccups are typically a normal reflex. It’s been suggested, though, that if they’re frequent and persistent in later pregnancy you call your doctor or midwife.

If you experience a sudden change in your baby’s hiccups after 28 weeks (for example, if they’re stronger, or last longer than usual) you may want to contact your doctor for peace of mind.

They can examine you and find out if there’s an issue. They can also help ease your worries if everything’s fine.

Counting kicks

Your baby will move a lot as the weeks roll on. You might worry about these movements or even feel uncomfortable. For this reason, you might want to count kicks in late pregnancy. Paying attention to fetal movements can help you determine if your little one’s doing OK.

Here’s one way to count kicks:

Most women can feel 10 movements within just 30 minutes. Give yourself up to 2 hours. Call your doctor or midwife whenever you have concerns, or if you notice a large shift in movements from day to day.

Overall, it’s a good idea to pay attention to your baby’s movements. If you notice changes, talk with your doctor.

As far as feeling comfortable, you might try a few things to ease the aches, pains, and stress of frequent fetal movements. Try lying on your side propped with pillows, especially if you want a good night’s sleep. Eat healthy foods, and drink plenty of water and other fluids.

Regular physical activity can also give you extra energy and even help with stress relief. Heading to bed at the same time each night and taking naps can also help you feel better during the day.

The takeaway

In most, if not all, cases, fetal hiccups are a normal reflex. They’re a normal part of pregnancy. Your baby has a lot to do to practice for their debut on delivery day.

If your baby’s hiccups ever give you reason for concern, contact your doctor or midwife. Soon enough, you’ll get to see your little one hiccuping outside your tummy. Just hang in there!