Light, recurring and sequential patterns are what you will notice at first. Later in your pregnancy, your baby’s hiccups will become robust and recognizable.
Although most babies have hiccups and they are harmless, some fetal hiccups may be a reason for concern. According to Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Jason Collins, MD, MSCR, of The Pregnancy Institute, even though your baby’s hiccups can be recurrent, once the Week 32 gestational marker is reached, your baby’s hiccups should lessen and not be present on a daily basis.
So, when your baby continues to hiccup every day with hiccups lasting longer than 15 minutes or a series of hiccups 3–4 times with 24 hours, alert your health care team and have your baby evaluated for possible umbilical cord concerns. You are now informed, in the driver’s seat, and your baby’s guardian.
Should we address hiccups occurring more than 4 times a day prior to 32 weeks? I am experiencing them now at 28.
Let your health care team know that you are now experiencing fetal hiccups. You could ask your health care team for an ultrasound to visualize the cord and to rule out any umbilical cord issues.
You can also download our app, ME Preg, and keep track of your baby’s movements 3 times a day. If you have any concerns, call your health care team or go to Labor & Delivery.