What decreased fetal movement ICD codes can I use?
There are numerous decreased fetal movement ICD codes to pick from. We picked six examples for this guide to show you what to expect when choosing codes. Here they are:
- O36.8120 - Decreased fetal movements, second trimester, not applicable or unspecified: This code is used when a pregnant patient in the second trimester (weeks 13–27) reports or is observed to have decreased fetal movements, but the fetus is either a singleton or the specific fetus is not identified (in cases of multiple pregnancies). It is classified under other specified fetal problems when trimester is not applicable or unspecified.
- O36.8121 - Decreased fetal movements, second trimester, fetus 1: This code applies when decreased fetal movement is noted in the second trimester specifically for fetus 1 (or fetus A) in a multiple pregnancy. In a twin pregnancy at 22 weeks, the mother reports decreased movement from the first fetus, requiring obstetric care and monitoring for fetal stress or fetal conditions ruled out.
- O36.8130 - Decreased fetal movements, third trimester, not applicable or unspecified: Used when decreased fetal movement is observed or reported during the third trimester (weeks 28 through delivery) for a singleton pregnancy or when the specific fetus is not identified in a multiple pregnancy.
- O36.8131 - Decreased fetal movements, third trimester, fetus 1: This code is for decreased fetal movement during the third trimester specifically for fetus 1 in a multiple pregnancy.
- O36.8190 - Decreased fetal movements, unspecified trimester, not applicable or unspecified: This code is used when decreased fetal movement is noted, but the trimester is not documented or known, and the fetus is either singleton or unspecified in a multiple pregnancy. A patient presents with a complaint of decreased fetal movement, but the medical record does not specify the trimester or fetus number.
- O36.8191 - Decreased fetal movements, unspecified trimester, fetus 1: This code applies when decreased fetal movement is documented without specifying the trimester, but it is known to be in fetus 1 (or fetus A) in a multiple pregnancy. A patient with twins reports decreased movement from fetus 1, but the gestational age or trimester is not recorded. It may be relevant to evaluate other fetal problems, rhesus isoimmunization, or third trimester not applicable status.
In addition to the six example codes provided, it is important to be aware that ICD-10-CM includes codes for decreased fetal movement applicable to fetuses 2 through 5, as well as an "other fetus" category in multiple pregnancies.
These codes follow the same structure of specifying trimester and fetus number but were not included here for brevity. When coding, always select the most specific code that accurately reflects the fetus involved to ensure precise documentation and billing.
Are these decreased fetal movement ICD codes billable?
Yes. All the aforementioned ICD-10 codes are valid and billable. These codes help inform decisions regarding maternal care, hospitalization, delivery, and other obstetric care when fetal problems are suspected.
Clinical information
During the second and third trimesters of a female's pregnancy, the fetus should be exhibiting movement.
The fetus should kick, punch, and stretch in unpredictable intervals in the second trimester. The larger the fetus becomes, the more intense their movements will be, so the mother will feel their fetal movements more intensely as time passes.
In the third trimester, the fetus' movements should have a pattern, like exhibiting certain movements at day or night. Their movements have more strength to them as well because they're much larger than they were in the previous trimester. Doctors and expecting female patients might even see movement beneath the belly's skin, indicating healthy fetal heart rate, amniotic fluid balance, and absence of abnormalities or delivery complicated issues.
During the second and third trimesters, doctors advise pregnant mothers to count their baby's kicks and record the maximum number in an interval. If the baby doesn't meet the set number of kicks, this is referred to as decreased fetal movement, a cause for concern. This condition can relate to trimester fetus 1, third trimester fetus, movements third trimester fetus, decreased fetal movements third, and even fetal movements second trimester concerns.
Synonyms include
- Decreased fetal movements
- Decreased fetal movements during the second trimester
- Decreased fetal movements during the third trimester
- Decreased fetal movement, second trimester
- Decreased fetal movement, third trimester
- Decreased fetal movement, unspecified trimester
Frequently asked questions
Decreased fetal movement refers to a noticeable drop in how often or how strongly the fetus moves during pregnancy, especially in the second or third trimester. It may signal potential fetal stress, developmental issues, or complications requiring prompt obstetric care and evaluation.
Healthcare providers may use a non-stress test (NST), ultrasound, or biophysical profile (BPP) to assess fetal movements, heart rate, and overall well-being. These evaluations help rule out conditions like fetal anemia, placental insufficiency, or other fetal problems.
Patients are often advised to drink something cold or eat a small snack, lie on their side, and count fetal kicks over an hour. If fewer than 10 movements are felt within two hours, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately for further assessment.
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