Fetal Spasms During Pregnancy: What to Know

Question
Hi
I should have asked the technician today but for some reason we always hold back and then questions can plaque us...I had an ultrasound today (i am 12 weeks pregnant) and during the ultrasound the babies body did multiple full body spasms (5-10 within 5 minutes) - i asked the tech if they were hiccups and she said no rather involuntary body spasms...is this normal; should i be worried? I can not find any info on this topic.

Answer
Dear Yasmin,

Full body twitching or spasms while in utero is most likely no different than what we see with newborns. Very often we see this very same thing in the nursery. Newborn babies will have this full body "spasm" when first waking or if something in the room has startled them just a bit while they are sleeping. What you noted was probably very similar to this. I would not let this worry you.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda