At which weeks of gestation can a mother typically begin to feel fetal movements?

Fetal movements, often referred to as "quickening," typically begin to be felt by the mother between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. During this period, the fetus is developing strength and coordination, allowing it to make movements that are strong enough for the mother to notice.

Feeling these movements can vary among individuals, with first-time mothers generally noticing them a little later compared to those who have been pregnant before. The timeframe of 18 to 20 weeks aligns with the average experiences shared by many expectant mothers and is substantiated by medical literature regarding fetal development and maternal sensation during pregnancy.

This knowledge is crucial as it helps healthcare providers set appropriate expectations for expectant mothers and offers reassurance as they begin to perceive their baby's activity. Earlier or later sensation of movement can sometimes occur, but the specified range of 18 to 20 weeks is widely recognized as the stage when most mothers begin to feel these movements.