What term describes the first fetal movements felt by a pregnant client?

The term that describes the first fetal movements felt by a pregnant client is "quickening." This sensation typically occurs between the 18th and 25th weeks of pregnancy and is often described as a fluttering or gentle movement, which the mother begins to notice as the fetus grows larger and becomes more active. Quickening is a significant milestone in pregnancy as it marks the moment when the mother becomes aware of her baby’s movements, fostering a deeper connection between the mother and fetus.

Other terms, while related to pregnancy, refer to different concepts. Lightening refers to when the baby drops into the pelvis closer to delivery, engagement is used to describe the process of the fetus's presenting part settling into the pelvic inlet, and ballottement is a technique used by healthcare providers to assess fetal movement through a gentle push on the uterus. Each of these terms highlights different aspects and stages of pregnancy, but quickening specifically pertains to the mother's experience of feeling the baby's movements for the first time.