Counting your baby's kicks is one way your doctor can tell that your baby is healthy. You will probably feel your baby move for the first time between 16 and 22 weeks. The movement may feel like flutters rather than kicks. Your baby may move more at certain times of the day. When you are active, you may notice less kicking than when you are resting. At your prenatal visits, your doctor will ask whether the baby is active.
In your last trimester, your doctor may ask you to count the number of times you feel your baby move.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How do you count fetal kicks?
A common method of checking your baby's movement is to note the length of time it takes to count 10 movements (such as kicks, flutters, or rolls).
Pick your baby's most active time of day to count. This may be any time from morning to evening.
If you don't feel 10 movements in an hour, have something to eat or drink and count for another hour. If you don't feel at least 10 movements in the 2-hour period, call your doctor.
Do not use an at-home Doppler heart monitor in place of counting fetal movements.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
You feel fewer than 10 movements in a 2-hour period.
You noticed that your baby has stopped moving or is moving less than normal.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
Sign out
