What does "quickening" refer to during pregnancy?

Quickening refers to the first time a mother feels fetal movements. This experience is significant as it marks a noticeable interaction between the mother and the developing fetus. Typically occurring around the midpoint of the pregnancy, between 18 to 20 weeks for first-time mothers and often earlier for those who have been pregnant before, quickening can range from a gentle fluttering sensation to more pronounced movements as the pregnancy progresses.

Understanding quickening is important for both maternal awareness and fetal development. It signals that the fetus is growing and becoming more active, which can be reassuring for the mother. This is a key milestone in prenatal care, encouraging expectant mothers to recognize and appreciate the changes happening within their bodies as the pregnancy advances.

The other options refer to various aspects of pregnancy but do not align with the specific definition of quickening. The onset of contractions indicates the beginning of labor, dilation of the cervix is a sign of preparation for delivery, and the passage of the mucous plug occurs later in pregnancy, typically as a precursor to labor. None of these processes relate to the initial awareness of fetal movements.