Counting Kicks
/Are you counting kicks?
Do you REALLY need to count kicks? Research shows that a noticeable change in your baby’s normal movement pattern can sometimes be an early sign of distress. Tracking kicks can help you recognize what’s normal for your baby so you can act quickly if something changes. Studies have found that maternal awareness of fetal movements can reduce the risk of stillbirth by prompting timely evaluation.
When to start:
Most providers recommend beginning daily kick counts around 28 weeks (or earlier if advised due to high-risk factors).
How to count:
Pick a time when your baby is usually active. The key is to do it the same time every day!
Lie on your side or sit comfortably with your feet up.
Count how long it takes to feel 10 movements.
Most babies will have 10 movements within 2 hours—BUT NORMAL VARIES FROM BABY TO BABY.
Kick counting is not about obsessing over every movement; it’s about building awareness and connection. Think of it as a daily check-in with your baby. Use it as a time to chat with your baby, tell him/her how much you love them and how excited you are to meet them. They can hear you. 🙂
What to watch for:
**You don’t feel the "normal" pattern of movements for your baby.**
If that happens, call your healthcare provider right away. Trust your instincts—you know your baby’s patterns best.
Kick Counting Myths:
You need 10 kicks within 2 hours.
Normal varies from baby to baby. Track the usual pattern of movements for YOUR baby. Count the Kicks app is very helpful (see below).
Babies slow down because they've run out of room near the end of pregnancy.
Type of movement may change (more jabs, fewer big kicks), the number of movements should remain consistent. Hiccups DON'T count.
Baby movement slows during labor.
You should feel your baby move throughout labor, too. Pay attention after your water breaks as well.
A dramatic increase in movement is normal.
Any dramatic changes in movement warrants a check-in with your provider.
Eat/Drink something sugary, drink a cold glass of water, or lay down flat for a while to get baby moving.
NO. NO. NO. Please go see your provider. This is outdated information. When in doubt, go be seen.
If I have a fetal doppler, I'll be fine.
A change in baby's movement can sometimes detect problems before changes in heart rate can.
*What I recommend*:
It’s free.
You can rate the strength of the movements on a scale of 1-5.
You get to know what’s normal for YOUR baby.
The app has a contraction timer, notes function, dark mode, and you can share your kick sessions with your provider!
In health and doula love,
Brooke