Kick counts help you track your baby’s movements in the third trimester, giving you peace of mind and a special way to bond. This guide covers when to expect kicks, how to count them, and what to do if something feels off.
When Will You First Feel Your Baby Move?
The first time you feel your baby move, known as “quickening,” is a moment you’ll likely never forget. Here’s what you can expect:
- First-Time Moms: Most first-time moms feel movement between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. It may feel like gentle flutters, bubbles, or even tiny muscle twitches.
- Second-Time Moms: If you’ve been pregnant before, you may notice movements as early as 16 weeks, as you’re more familiar with what to look for.
- Every Pregnancy is Unique: Factors such as your baby’s position, the placement of the placenta, and even your body type can affect when and how you feel movement. An anterior placenta will make it more difficult to recognize the baby’s movement.
At first, movements may be sporadic and faint, but as your baby grows, those kicks will become more frequent and noticeable.
What Are Kick Counts?
Kick counts are a simple yet effective way to monitor your baby’s well-being in the third trimester. By tracking your baby’s movements, you can ensure they’re active and healthy.
Why Are Kick Counts Important?
Counting kicks can help you:
- Recognize your baby’s movement patterns.
- Detect changes in movement, which could signal potential issues.
- Bond with your baby by dedicating quiet time to focus on them.
When Should You Start Counting Kicks?
Kick counts are typically recommended starting around 28 weeks of pregnancy (or 26 weeks if you have a high-risk pregnancy).
How to Do Kick Counts
Kick counts are easy to do and don’t require any special equipment. Follow these steps:
- Find a Quiet Time: Choose a time when your baby is usually active, such as after a meal or when you’re lying down.
- Get Comfortable: Sit or lie on your side in a quiet, distraction-free space.
- Count Movements: Track all movements—kicks, rolls, swishes, and flutters—until you reach 10 movements.
- Track the Time: Most babies will make 10 movements in 2 hours or less, but many will do so in 30 minutes or less.
You can use a notebook or a kick count app to record your baby’s movements.
What If You Don’t Feel Movement?
If you don’t feel your baby move as expected:
- Try eating a snack or drinking something cold to wake your baby up.
- Lie on your left side in a quiet room and focus on movements.
- If you don’t feel 10 movements in 2 hours, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Remember, every baby has their own unique movement patterns. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
Tips for Enjoying and Monitoring Your Baby’s Movements
- Create a Routine: Incorporate kick counts into your daily schedule, such as after breakfast or dinner.
- Involve Your Partner: Let your partner feel the baby’s kicks and join in the excitement.
- Stay Calm: If your baby has quieter days, remember that they also have sleep cycles and less active moments.
Cherishing Those Kicks
Feeling your baby move is one of the most beautiful parts of pregnancy. Those tiny kicks and wiggles are a reminder of the life growing inside you and a way to ensure your baby is thriving.
By understanding when to expect movement and using kick counts as a tool, you can enjoy this special time with confidence and peace of mind.
Celebrate every flutter, roll, and jab—it’s your baby’s way of saying, “I’m here, Mom!”
