At what gestational week do women typically start feeling fetal movement?

Around 20 weeks of gestation is typically when women begin to feel fetal movement, often referred to as "quickening." This phenomenon is more common in first-time pregnancies at this stage, as women may not recognize the feeling of fetal movement until the fetus is larger and movements are more pronounced. The initial subtle movements may start earlier, around 16 weeks, but they are not usually perceived by the mother until closer to the 20-week mark. Knowing this can help expectant mothers gauge the development of their baby and understand their pregnancy progression. As the pregnancy continues, these movements typically become stronger and more frequent, indicating healthy fetal development.