When does quickening typically occur during pregnancy?

Quickening refers to the first noticeable movements of the fetus that the pregnant individual can feel. This sensation is an important milestone in pregnancy and usually occurs between the 16th and 20th week.

At this stage, the fetus is sufficiently developed, and the movements become strong enough for the individual to detect them, often described as fluttering or a gentle tapping sensation. This timeline for quickening aligns with fetal development, as by this period, the muscles and nervous systems are developing further, allowing for more coordinated movements.

Understanding the timing of quickening helps caregivers to assess fetal development and provides reassurance to the pregnant individual regarding the well-being of the fetus.