Summary about Disease
"Quickening absent" isn't a disease itself, but rather a symptom or a *situation* in pregnancy. Quickening refers to the moment when a pregnant woman starts to feel or perceive fetal movements in the uterus. The absence of quickening, particularly beyond the timeframe where it is normally expected, can be a cause for concern, suggesting potential issues with the pregnancy. These issues can range from miscalculated due dates to more serious problems affecting fetal viability. It is important to discuss with a medical professional.
Symptoms
The primary "symptom" is the lack of perceived fetal movement by the pregnant woman beyond the gestational age when quickening is typically felt. Other symptoms that *might* be present *depending on the underlying cause* could include:
Absence of other pregnancy symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness).
Vaginal bleeding or cramping.
Decreased or absent uterine growth.
Causes
The absence of quickening can be caused by a variety of factors:
Miscalculated gestational age: The woman may be earlier in her pregnancy than she believes.
Anterior placenta: The placenta is positioned in front of the uterus, which can cushion fetal movements and make them harder to feel.
Maternal obesity: Excess abdominal fat can make it more difficult to feel fetal movements.
Fetal inactivity or death: This is a serious cause, indicating a non-viable pregnancy.
Oligohydramnios: Insufficient amniotic fluid.
Fetal abnormalities: Conditions affecting fetal movement.
Medicine Used
There isn't a "medicine" to induce quickening. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If fetal demise has occurred, management options might include:
Misoprostol: A medication to induce uterine contractions and expel the pregnancy.
Dilation and Curettage (D&C): A surgical procedure to remove the contents of the uterus.
Expectant management: Allowing the body to naturally expel the pregnancy tissue. If there is an issue causing a reduced amount of amniotic fluid, there may be the administration of intravenous fluids.
Is Communicable
No, the absence of quickening is not communicable. It is a condition related to pregnancy and fetal health, not an infectious disease.
Precautions
Precautions are centered on monitoring pregnancy and seeking medical attention if quickening is absent or decreases significantly:
Regular prenatal appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments to monitor fetal development.
Fetal kick counts: Once quickening is felt, track fetal movements regularly, as advised by a doctor.
Report concerns promptly: If you notice a decrease or absence of fetal movement, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly (as advised by a doctor), and avoid smoking and alcohol.
How long does an outbreak last?
Because the absence of quickening is not an infectious disease, the concept of an "outbreak" doesn't apply. The duration of this situation depends entirely on the underlying cause and the interventions (if any) that are undertaken.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of:
Patient history: Assessing the pregnant woman's reported last menstrual period, any previous pregnancies, and her description of fetal movement.
Physical examination: Checking uterine size and listening for fetal heart tones using a Doppler device or fetoscope.
Ultrasound: This is the primary diagnostic tool. It can confirm gestational age, assess fetal viability, evaluate amniotic fluid levels, and visualize fetal anatomy.
Fetal heart rate monitoring: To assess fetal well-being.
Timeline of Symptoms
Typical quickening: Usually felt between 16-25 weeks of gestation in first pregnancies. Later pregnancies might feel it earlier (around 13-16 weeks).
Concern arises: If no quickening is felt by 24-28 weeks, further investigation is warranted.
Diagnostic window: Ultrasound is usually performed soon after the concern is raised, to determine the underlying cause.
Intervention time: Treatment or management depends on the diagnosis and can vary.
Important Considerations
Anxiety and stress: The absence of quickening can cause significant anxiety and stress for the pregnant woman and her family. Support and counseling may be beneficial.
Individual variability: Every pregnancy is different. Some women may feel quickening later than others. It is always best to discuss concerns with your doctor.
Potential for loss: In some cases, the absence of quickening can indicate fetal demise, a devastating event for the parents.
Prompt evaluation: Timely investigation is crucial to identify the underlying cause and determine the best course of action for both the mother and the fetus.