fostervandsovervågning

fostervandsovervågning, or fetal movement monitoring, is a non‑invasive method used by pregnant individuals to assess fetal wellbeing during gestation. It relies on the observation of fetal movements as an indicator of the infant’s health and can provide early warning of potential complications such as decreased amniotic fluid or fetal distress.

During a typical monitoring session, the mother is asked to sit or lie down and feel for fetal kicks, hiccups or flutters over a set period, usually between 20 and 30 minutes. The patient counts the number of movements or notes their pattern and reports any changes to the healthcare provider. In addition to self‑monitoring, clinicians may use handheld Doppler devices to listen for the fetal heart rate (FHR) as evidence of fetal activity. Other optional tools include electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) and ultrasound to corroborate movement data.

Clinical guidelines, which vary by country, recommend that uncomplicated pregnancies begin self‑monitoring in the late second trimester and continue until delivery, with a minimum of one daily count. Women with high‑risk factors—such as pre‑existing diabetes, hypertension, advanced maternal age, or a history of fetal growth restriction—are often instructed to count more frequently (2–3 times per week) and to seek immediate care if a decrease or absence of movements occurs. Regular monitoring is associated with increased detection of intrauterine growth restriction and lower rates of stillbirth in high‑risk groups.

Despite its benefits, fetal movement monitoring is not a perfect screening tool; its effectiveness depends on accurate reporting, and some benign variations in movement may be misinterpreted. Therefore, follow‑up investigations such as ultrasound, non‑stress tests, or cardiotocography are generally recommended when abnormal counts are reported.