Fetal Movement at 19 Weeks: What to Expect & When to Worry

Question
Ok...I have had 2 kiddos ..but it's been a while(10 years since the last) and I am a nurse, but..am I being paranoid or not?
I have not felt any 'movement' for a few (4-5)days now--I am 19 weeks along. Should I call the doctor or wait one + more week until my next appt? This was an IVF pregnancy and I am just nervous.

Answer
Dear Kim,

I would recommend you do a kick count of sorts. Babies should be more active at certain times during the day - like when you are more active or have just eaten a meal. But at 19 weeks, you probably only began to feel movement within the last few weeks, so doing a kick count may help to determine if you need to make the call to the doctor.

Try doing this after eating a meal or drinking a glass of orange juice to try and induce movement. Lie down on your side in a quiet area so you won't get distracted. Time how long it takes for you to feel ten distinct movements - kicks, twitches, and whole body movements all count - any movement at all. If you don't feel ten movements in two hours, stop counting and call your doctor.

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

Brenda