HEREFORD and Worcestershire local maternity and neonatal system (LMNS) is reminding expectant parents that baby movements matter during pregnancy.
The #MovementsMatter campaign aims to encourage people expecting a baby to contact their maternity team if they have any concerns regarding the baby’s movements.
Rachel Duckett, obstetric lead at the LMNS, said: “Once your baby starts to move, it should keep on moving.
“You should start to recognise a pattern and it shouldn’t stop.
“If the movement stops, slows down, or changes – or you’re worried for any reason, pick up the phone and call Maternity Triage immediately.”
Amie Symes, associate director of midwifery at Wye Valley NHS Trust, added: “We’re also using the campaign to raise awareness that home Doppler tests (handheld baby heart monitors designed to help hear a baby’s heartbeat) are not reliable.
“Even if you detect a heartbeat it doesn’t mean your baby is well. So – if your baby’s movements change, call Maternity Triage.”
Visit hwics.org.uk/movementsmatter for more information.
The phone number for Maternity Triage at Worcestershire Royal Hospital is 01905 733196.
The phone number for Maternity Triage at County Hospital, Hereford is 07990 986517.
