Echoes of Pregnancy: Maternal Perception of Phantom Fetal Movements After Childbirth.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Phantom fetal movements (PFMs) refer to the perception of fetal-like abdominal sensations following pregnancy. Despite their prevalence, PFMs remain insufficiently studied, and their underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the prevalence, characteristics and associated factors of PFMs in the general population.

Design

Observational online study.

Setting

General population in France.

Population

Women with a history of childbirth.

Methods

Study data were collected via a secure online REDCap survey, comprising closed-ended questions on sociodemographics, lifetime obstetrical history, detailed pregnancy experiences, fetal movement perception and postnatal PFMs.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome measures

SUBMITTER: Bottemanne H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12770082 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature