Obstetric outcome in women complaining of reduced fetal movements.

Reduction of fetal movements causes concern and anxiety and is a common indication for the assessment of fetal well-being. The aim of this study was to review the outcome of women who presented primarily with reduced fetal movements and to compare with women of similar age and gestation who did not present with reduced fetal movements (controls). Some 19% of intrauterine growth restricted babies were found in the study group, compared with none in the control group. In the study group, 32% of women needed intervention solely due to fetal compromise compared with 21% in the control group. There was no perinatal or neonatal death in either group. We suggest that these women should be carefully investigated and monitored to improve the obstetric outcome.