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Reduced fetal movements — DRCOG MCQ

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EasyAntenatal CareReduced fetal movementsDRCOG

A 31-year-old woman at 35 weeks telephones the GP surgery because fetal movements have been reduced since yesterday evening. She has an anterior placenta and no pain or bleeding. Her pregnancy has otherwise been uncomplicated. What would you advise?

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Correct answer: C — Attend maternity triage today for fetal assessment

Reduced fetal movements after viability require same-day maternity assessment because they may be associated with fetal compromise. Reassurance based on placental position or home Doppler use is unsafe, as a fetal heart sound does not assess wellbeing. Routine review later in the week risks delaying identification of growth restriction or stillbirth risk. The pearl is that maternal perception of reduced movements should be taken seriously.

Reference: RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 57; NICE NG201