Baby Hiccupping a Lot in the Womb
The short answer
Fetal hiccups are very common and are caused by the baby practicing breathing movements, which makes the diaphragm contract rhythmically. They feel like small, regular, repetitive movements. Most fetal hiccups are completely normal and are a sign of healthy development. They are most commonly felt in the second and third trimesters.
Thousands of parents search for this exact thing. You are not alone.
By Age
What to expect by age
You may start feeling fetal hiccups around 24-28 weeks. They feel like rhythmic, repetitive tapping or pulsing in one spot, distinct from kicks. Episodes may last a few minutes to 15-20 minutes. These are a normal sign that your baby's respiratory system is developing.
Fetal hiccups are most commonly noticed in the third trimester. Some babies hiccup multiple times a day, while others rarely do. Both are normal. Very frequent, persistent hiccups (multiple times daily for prolonged periods) in very late pregnancy have, in rare cases, been associated with cord compression, so mention it to your provider if the pattern seems excessive or changes suddenly.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Rhythmic, repetitive movements lasting a few minutes, occurring periodically
- Fetal hiccups a few times a day
- Hiccups that have been a consistent pattern throughout your pregnancy
- Hiccups seem to be happening much more frequently than before
- You want reassurance that fetal hiccups are normal
- Hiccups are lasting very long periods (30+ minutes regularly)
- A sudden dramatic increase in hiccup frequency combined with decreased overall movement
- Hiccups replacing normal kick and movement patterns
Sources
Related Resources
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician.
Worrying about your baby means you care. That is a good thing.
Related Maternal Concerns
Baby Moving Less
Feeling your baby move regularly is one of the most important signs of fetal well-being. If you notice a significant decrease in your baby's usual movement pattern, it should always be evaluated promptly. Trust your instincts - you know your baby's patterns best. Contacting your provider about decreased movement is never overreacting.
Less Movement with Anterior Placenta
An anterior placenta (attached to the front wall of the uterus) acts as a cushion between the baby and your belly wall, which can make movements feel muffled or less intense. You may feel movement later (22-24 weeks instead of 18-20) and primarily on the sides and lower belly. This is normal, but you should still feel regular movement once it is established.
Dealing with Abnormal Prenatal Screening Results
An abnormal prenatal screening result can be terrifying, but it is important to understand that screening tests are designed to cast a wide net and have significant false-positive rates. Most people with abnormal screening results go on to have healthy babies after further testing confirms the baby is fine. An abnormal screening is a reason for more information, not a diagnosis.
Pregnancy Over 35 (Advanced Maternal Age)
While pregnancy after 35 carries some increased risks (including chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes, and hypertension), the vast majority of people over 35 have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. The term "geriatric pregnancy" is outdated and does not reflect reality. With appropriate prenatal care and monitoring, outcomes are excellent.
Amniocentesis Questions and Fears
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test performed between 15-20 weeks that analyzes amniotic fluid to detect chromosomal conditions and genetic disorders with over 99% accuracy. The risk of pregnancy loss from the procedure is approximately 1 in 500-1,000 when performed by an experienced provider. Understanding the actual risks can help you make an informed decision.
20-Week Anatomy Scan Unexpected Findings
The 20-week anatomy scan checks your baby's major organs, structures, and growth. Most scans are completely normal. When unexpected findings are identified, they range from minor variants that resolve on their own to conditions that need further evaluation. Many findings require nothing more than a follow-up ultrasound to confirm the baby is developing well.