What is ballottement in pregnancy?

Ballottement is a physical examination technique used by healthcare providers to assess the position of the fetus in the uterus during pregnancy. It involves the gentle pushing or tapping of the uterus with one hand while feeling for a rebound movement with the other hand. If a rebound movement is felt, it indicates that the fetus is freely moving within the amniotic fluid and is not firmly fixed in one position.

Ballottement is typically performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, around 16-18 weeks gestation. It can help healthcare providers determine the size, position, and mobility of the fetus, as well as assess for any possible abnormalities or complications. A positive ballottement test can also help confirm the presence of a pregnancy and aid in diagnosing a suspected case of polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (inadequate amniotic fluid).

It is important to note that ballottement should only be performed by trained healthcare professionals and should not be attempted by pregnant individuals without proper training. If you have any concerns or questions about your pregnancy, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.