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Counting baby's movements at home
kick counts · fetal movement counting · count to ten · baby moving less
You keep track of how often your baby moves. It is a simple way to notice whether your baby is doing well.
Usually in the second half of pregnancy, when movements are easy to feel. Your doctor will tell you how to count.
⏱ Duration: usually up to 1 to 2 hours a day, as your doctor advises
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Time. Choose a time when your baby is usually active, often after a meal or in the evening.
- Position. Lie on your left side or sit comfortably.
- Notes. Have a notebook or an app ready to mark the movements.
What to bring
- A notebook or phone for notes
- A clock or timer
How it goes
- Get comfortable on your side
- Note the start time
- Count each movement: a push, a roll, a kick
- Do not count hiccups
- Note the time when you reach the number you need
- Write down the result
What you'll feel
- Movements can feel different: pushes, rolls, or light fluttering
- Your baby may sleep for up to 20 to 40 minutes. This is normal
Afterwards
- Show your notes to the doctor at your visit
- If everything is as usual, keep watching
- It is important to know your baby's usual pattern
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Your baby has stopped moving or is moving much less than usual: call your doctor or the maternity hospital right away
- You did not feel the movements within the time your doctor gave you: call emergency services
- Bleeding or leaking fluid: call emergency services
Common questions
How many movements should there be?
Methods differ. Most often, the goal is 10 movements within a set time. Your doctor will tell you your number.
My baby is quiet. Can I wait until tomorrow?
No. If there are fewer movements than usual, call your doctor or the maternity hospital right away. Do not wait.