At approximately how many weeks of gestation does a nulliparous woman typically first feel fetal movements?

Fetal movements, often referred to as "quickening," are typically first felt by a nulliparous woman around 18 weeks of gestation. This timeframe aligns with the development of the fetus and the woman's ability to perceive these movements. At around 18 weeks, the fetus has grown sufficiently, and its movements become more pronounced, allowing the mother to recognize them. Prior to this stage, movements may occur but are too subtle for the mother to detect, especially for first-time mothers who may not be familiar with the sensation of fetal movement.

The timing can vary slightly based on individual differences, but 18 weeks is a widely accepted point for many women, particularly those who have not been pregnant before. This understanding is supported by clinical observations and studies of fetal development and maternal perception of movement during pregnancy.