Publish date: 10 October 2025
Midwives at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust are urging pregnant women to contact the maternity unit immediately if they notice their baby’s movements slow down or stop.
This is because acting quickly could help prevent stillbirth, the team says.
Reduced movement is not a cause of stillbirth, but it could be a sign that the baby is not getting enough food or oxygen. It’s important to be checked by a medical professional as soon as possible, as there is usually a short window of opportunity to save the baby’s life.
This warning comes as hospital staff have become aware of health misinformation circulating online, advising that women wait 24 hours or even several days before seeking medical help.
“This advice can be incredibly dangerous,” says Amanda Jeffreys, Saving Babies Lives lead at Tameside and Glossop IC NHS FT.
“Reduced movements are an important warning sign that something may be wrong, so we always recommend getting in touch with the maternity unit straight away if you notice a change. Don’t wait until the next day – even if it’s in the middle of the night.”
Most expectant mothers start to feel their baby move from around 16-20 weeks of pregnancy. These movements can feel like a gentle swirling or fluttering. As the pregnancy progresses, they may become kicks and jerky movements.
Feeling movement is sign that the baby is healthy, and pregnant women should continue to feel their baby move throughout the entire pregnancy and during labour. Babies should not move less towards the end of pregnancy.
According to pregnancy and baby charity Tommy’s, in more than half of stillbirths across the UK, the mother had noticed that their baby’s movements had slowed or stopped but had not reported it.
“Every pregnancy is different, so it’s important to know what pattern of movement is normal for you,” says Amanda Jeffreys.
“If you notice a change to your baby’s usual pattern of movements, trust your instincts and contact us as soon as possible. It could just save your baby’s life.”
Tameside Hospital maternity unit’s triage helpline can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0161 922 6655.
More information on baby movements in pregnancy can be found on the Tommy’s website. Tommy’s is a charity dedicated to preventing baby loss.
Support for anyone who finds this topic difficult is available via Finding Rainbows. Finding Rainbows Baby and Child Bereavement Service is a charity which helps families navigate the loss of a baby or child.
Expectant parents based in Tameside can find more information about the maternity services at Tameside Hospital on our dedicated maternity website.
