ABSTRACT
The history of quantitative measurement of fetal movement is reviewed, and problems with achieving reliability using ultrasound imaging for visualizing the fetus are discussed. Based on these factors, the seven phase process of developing a quantitative assessment of fetal movement is presented. The Fetal-Posture and Movement (F-PAM) system includes 20 categories emphasizing fetal posture and activity of the trunk and head, leg movement in space or against the uterine wall, arm movement towards specific objects, and jaw movements. The establishment of reliability and future directions for development and use of the assessment are suggested.
