Why Tracking Fetal Movement Matters?
Your baby’s movements are an important sign of their health and well-being during pregnancy. Tracking these movements, often called “kick counts,” helps you recognize what’s normal for your baby and can alert you to potential issues early. Research shows that changes in fetal movement patterns can be one of the first signs of distress, making this practice a simple but powerful way to protect your baby’s health.
When to Start Tracking:
Most women feel their baby’s first movements, called “quickening,” between 18–24 weeks.
By the third trimester (around 28 weeks), it’s a good idea to start paying close attention to your baby’s daily activity patterns.
How to Track Fetal Movement:
Choose a Time: Pick a time when your baby is usually active, often after meals or in the evening.
Get Comfortable: Lie on your left side or sit in a quiet space where you can focus.
Count Movements: Count 10 kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls and note how long it takes. (Most babies move 10 times in 2 hours or less.)
Log It: Use a journal, notes app, or fetal movement tracking app to record results.
When to Call Your Provider:
If you don’t feel 10 movements in 2 hours.
If you notice sudden changes in your baby’s usual activity pattern.
If your gut tells you something feels wrong. Trust your instincts, your voice matters.
Why It’s Especially Important for You
Black women in the U.S. are at higher risk for pregnancy complications like stillbirth and preeclampsia. Tracking fetal movements is a proactive, empowering step to ensure early detection of any changes. Advocating for yourself, if something doesn’t feel right, can make a life-saving difference.
Tips for Making Kick Counts Easy
Pair it with a daily routine: Count after dinner or before bed.
Stay hydrated: Babies tend to move more when you’re hydrated.
Play music or talk to your baby: This can encourage movement and create bonding moments.
Community & Support
Download apps like "Count the Kicks" (countthekicks.org) for easy logging.
Share your tracking logs with your care team at each visit.