Elara guides
Why your baby hiccups in the womb
Those tiny rhythmic taps are a good sign.
Updated · Sources
Somewhere in the second half of pregnancy you might feel a series of tiny, rhythmic taps — evenly spaced, a little different from a kick. There's a good chance your baby has hiccups. It's a sweet, slightly strange sensation, and it's completely normal.
What's happening
Fetal hiccups are thought to come from the baby's developing diaphragm twitching as they practise the movements of breathing — drawing amniotic fluid in and out. It's part of how their lungs and nervous system rehearse for life outside, and it's generally seen as a sign of healthy development.
How they feel
- Regular, repetitive taps in the same spot — unlike the varied jabs of kicking.
- Often last a few minutes, sometimes several times a day.
- Usually low down if the baby is head-down later on.
- Harmless, even if they occasionally interrupt your sleep.
When to take note
Hiccups themselves aren't a worry. What matters is overall movement: a change or reduction in your baby's usual kicks and rolls is what to act on, not the hiccups. Some research suggests a sudden, big increase in daily hiccup episodes very late on is worth mentioning — but it's the movement pattern that's the real signal.
Sources & editorial process
Written by the Elara editorial team from the sources above. This page has not been reviewed by an independent clinician. Read how we write and update health pages. Last updated .
Medical disclaimer: this page is general education, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about yourself or your baby, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. In an emergency call your local emergency number.