How Do You Track Your Baby's Movements? Get to Know Their Pattern

Getting to know how your baby moves helps you notice when something changes. A baby who is unwell may move less than usual. The sooner a change is checked, the sooner you and your baby can get the right care.

When you will feel movements

First movements are usually felt at around 20 weeks. Some people notice them sooner and some later.

At first you may feel a light flutter or swirl. Later on, you are more likely to feel kicks and jerky movements.

Learn your baby's pattern

There is no specific number of movements that shows everything is fine. What matters is a change in how your baby moves. Your provider may ask you to do kick counts at home. Methods vary, so your provider will explain how often to count and when to call.

Using the kick counter

If you want a record, tap once for each movement you feel. Your sessions are saved by day, so you can look back at how your baby tends to move. The counter records what you feel. It does not tell you whether a count or a pattern is fine, and counting does not replace a check.

If movements change

If your baby has stopped moving or is moving less than before, call your provider or labor and delivery right away. Call day or night. Do not wait until the next day.

Do not check with a home doppler instead of calling. It cannot reliably tell you how your baby is, and a heartbeat you can hear does not show that your baby is well.

If something does not feel right, or you are not sure whether it is serious, call your provider anyway. You do not need to be certain first.