Foetal movement information and maternal concerns in the third trimester

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Bradford BF et al.

June 24, 2026

Summary:

Foetal movement worries are common for women in the third trimester of pregnancy in New Zealand, but Māori and Pacific women are less likely to seek advice when concerned than European women, according to a survey of 1640 women with singleton pregnancies. Of the surveyed population, 63.5% were European, 16.2% were Māori and 7.3% were Pacific peoples. Median gestation time was 31 weeks, 55.9% were nulliparous, and 83.3% had been concerned about foetal movement. Adjusted odds ratios for seeking advice when concerned were 0.69 (95% CI 0.51%-0.93%; p = 0.02) for Māori and 0.58 (95% CI 0.38%-0.88%; p = 0.01) for Pacific compared with European women. Advice seeking was also less likely when a doctor was the main maternity provider compared with a midwife (adjusted odds ratio 0.59; 95% CI 0.39%-0.92%, p = 0.02), and in those who received fewer compared with the recommended number of antenatal visits (adjusted odd ratio 0.55; 95% CI 0.34%-0.88%; p = 0.01).

Comment:

The finding that Māori and Pacific wāhine were less likely to seek advice should be interpreted within the context of longstanding barriers to good antenatal care for them. The fact that advice seeking was more likely with a midwife highlights the importance of a good relationship, trust and continuity – all things we can implement to improve stillbirth outcomes.

Reference: Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2026;66(2):e70122.

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.