Molly-Mae Hague took to Instagram last night to share more details of her pregnancy with her 6.7 million followers, revealing that she and Tommy Fury haven't been able to feel their baby kick.
"So I actually have an anterior placenta," the former Love Islander announced. "I have been getting quite disheartened at how little I've been able to feel her move, especially when I can feel her and Tommy can't when he touches my belly."
Molly-Mae went on to explain how having an anterior placenta (more on that later) has impacted her pregnancy journey. "It's really reassuring to know [that] because my placenta is literally a huge sponge between me and baby, that's absorbing all her movement and preventing me from really feeling it."
Despite the disappointment at missing out on feeling their baby kick, the reality TV star turned business mogul said she's still excited about what's to come. "Think it'll be a while yet until we see her little legs kicking through or Tommy feels her, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed."
On her Instagram Story, Molly-Mae also shared a scan photo, pointing out where her placenta is sitting and how this is preventing their baby's kicks from being felt.
What is the placenta?
The placenta is an organ attached to the lining of the womb. It helps a baby grow and develop by passing oxygen, nutrients and antibodies via the umbilical cord.
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What is an anterior placenta?
The placenta develops in the first few weeks of pregnancy, wherever the fertilised egg embeds itself. This could be along the top, sides, front or back wall of the uterus. If the placenta attaches to the front, this is called an anterior placenta.
Can an anterior placenta cause complications?
"This is very unlikely," explains pregnancy and baby charity, Tommy's. "The front wall of the uterus is a normal place for the placenta to implant and develop. An anterior placenta will still do its job of nourishing your baby, but there are some things to be aware of if you are diagnosed."
"Having an anterior placenta can make it a bit harder to feel your baby move because your baby is cushioned by the placenta lying at the front of your stomach," the charity adds. "However, it’s very important that you never assume that having an anterior placenta is a reason why you can’t feel your baby move."
Get to know your baby’s movements and be aware of them throughout your pregnancy. Contact your midwife or maternity unit immediately if you think your baby’s movements have slowed down, stopped or changed – it’s always best to get checked.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
