Baby movements and kick counting: what's normal and when to call
Most women feel movements between 16 and 24 weeks. From then until birth, get to know your baby's usual pattern. If movements slow down, stop or change, call your maternity unit straight away, day or night. Don't wait until the next day, and don't rely on a home heartbeat monitor.
Key facts
| First movements | 16 to 24 weeks |
|---|---|
| Movements near birth | Continue right up to labour |
| Reduced movements | Call your maternity unit now |
| Home dopplers | Not recommended |
When you'll feel your baby
Early movements feel like flutters, bubbles or a gentle tapping. Women who have been pregnant before often notice them sooner. By 24 weeks most women feel regular movements.
Know your baby's pattern
There's no set number of kicks that is normal for every baby. What matters is your baby's own pattern. Many babies are active in the evening and after you eat.
How kick counting works
Some hospitals ask you to count movements at a time your baby is usually active, often aiming for 10 movements in 2 hours. Others, including UK guidance, focus on knowing the pattern rather than a number. Follow your own hospital's advice. Our kick counter keeps a log on your phone so you can spot changes.
The myth about running out of room
Babies do not move less as they get bigger. The type of movement may change from kicks to rolls and pushes, but you should feel your baby moving right up to and during labour.
What happens when you call
Your maternity unit will usually listen to your baby's heartbeat with a monitor (CTG) and may do a scan. Most of the time everything is fine, but reduced movements can be an early sign that the baby needs help, so it's always worth checking.
Sleep on your side
From 28 weeks, go to sleep on your side, either side. Research has linked sleeping on your back in late pregnancy with a higher risk of stillbirth. If you wake on your back, just turn over.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink cold water to make the baby move?
Is hiccups a movement?
Sources
- RCOG Green-top 57: Reduced fetal movements
- NHS: Your baby's movements
- Tommy's: Sleep position research
General information, not medical advice. Medical disclaimer · How we review content
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