• What are fetal hiccups?
  • What does it feel like when your baby hiccups in the womb?
  • Why do babies get hiccups in the womb?
  • When are fetal hiccups common?
  • How to ease baby hiccups?
  • Is it hiccups or your baby kicking?
  • When should you see a doctor?
  • Frequently asked questions

When you are pregnant, you will experience the different movements of the baby inside you, which only get stronger with each trimester. Along with the kicks, rolls, and jabs, you will also feel the hiccups of the baby. And if it is your first pregnancy, it might be surprising, confusing and scary as well. Worry not!

MomJunction is here to help you know why the baby gets hiccups inside the womb, when you can expect them and how to ease them.

What Are Fetal Hiccups?

Fetal hiccups in the womb are little movements the diaphragm makes when the baby begins to practice breathing. When the baby inhales, the amniotic fluid enters into the lungs causing the diaphragm to contract, resulting in hiccups (1). They are a normal part of fetal development, and rarely indicate a problem of the umbilical cord.

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What Does It Feel Like When Your Baby Gets Hiccups In The Womb?

Fetal hiccups feel like repetitive taps or kicks from the baby, which you will experience once or many times a day. They are a series of little rhythmic or jerky movements that show a positive sign of the baby being healthy and active. However, not all women feel baby hiccups, but still, deliver healthy babies (2).

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Why Do Babies Get Hiccups In The Womb?

Fetal hiccups show signs of baby development in the womb. The reasons behind the occurrence of baby hiccups are as follows (3) (4):

  1. Contractions in the diaphragm as said above are the major contributing factors of baby hiccups in the womb. As the fetus sucks in the amniotic fluid, the diaphragm contracts leading to hiccup effect.
  1. Development of reflexes, where the fetus is trying to suck fingers or thumb may also result in hiccups.
  1. Brain finds it necessary to practice reflux when swallowing food or expelling wastes that might also lead to fetal hiccups. It is a healthy process by which it strengthens the heart muscles and respiration.
  1. Cord compression could also cause hiccups when the umbilical cord winds along the fetal neck, limiting the oxygen flow (5).

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When Are Fetal Hiccups Common?

You will feel the hiccups at the end of the second trimester. They become stronger in the third trimester. This is usually after nine weeks of pregnancy when the arms and legs start developing (6). Hiccups will not be felt with the same intensity as the pregnancy progresses, and their frequency tends to reduce as you get closer to labor.

If hiccups aggravate in the three to four weeks leading to the due date, it could be an umbilical cord issue that needs the doctor's attention.

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How To Ease The Baby's Hiccups?

Although baby hiccups are perfectly normal, they could be annoying sometimes. They may even distract you or disturb you, preventing uninterrupted sleep. The following measures can help to tackle the discomfort.

  • Take a walk when you feel the rhythmic movements of the hiccups. It will shift the baby's position and relaxes the diaphragm. This could even make the baby sleep.
  • Have more water as hiccups could also develop when you are low on fluid levels.
  • Consume a light snack or meal containing protein. It helps your body relax and helps your baby sleep.
  • Do not hold your breath to get rid of hiccups, as it could be dangerous for the baby.

Remember, these are only tips but not sure-shot ways that stop the fetal hiccups. The hiccups go away on their own and are a normal part of baby's development.

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Is It Hiccups Or Your Baby Kicking?

It is possible to differentiate between the baby's hiccups or kicks by moving around.

In some cases, your baby will move if she is uncomfortable in the same position, or when you eat something cold or hot. You will feel the movements in different parts of your tummy, and they may stop if you change your position. These are known to be kicks.

If you are completely still and feel rhythmic twitches from only one part of your tummy, they are likely to be fetal hiccups. It may take you a while to understand and identify these movements (7).

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When Should You See A Doctor?

If you experience a sudden increase in hiccups, for instance, if they last longer and get stronger than usual, you should contact a doctor. An ultrasound will help the doctor understand the condition of the baby. This is also a reason you must pay attention to the baby's movements.

Next, we answer some queries raised by our readers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are fetal hiccups a sign of labor?

No, fetal hiccups are not a sign of impending labor. Their frequency usually decreases with the nearing due date.

2. How long do fetal hiccups usually last?

Fetal hiccups usually last a few seconds or minutes (8). If they continue for more than 15 minutes, it could be a cause of concern, and you should see a doctor.

3. Is it normal to have fetal hiccups for more than 20 minutes?

Yes, sometimes fetal hiccups may continue for 20 minutes or more. This condition needs a doctor's attention, and the baby may be evaluated for reflux.

During pregnancy, it is essential to keep track of your baby's movements. Avoid unnecessary anxiety, and stay calm. In most cases, baby hiccups in the womb are not a cause of worry. But, it is best to see your doctor who can use an ultrasound to detect the fetal movements.

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Have you had any experience with fetal hiccups? Do share your story with us.

References:

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

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  • Author

Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She has been into health and wellness writing since 2010. She received her graduate degree in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in 'Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy' from Ludwig... more