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.