Tuning In to Baby’s Wiggles and Kicks
There’s nothing quite like the first time you feel your baby move. Those gentle flutters—or strong little jabs later on—are more than just sweet moments. They’re signs of how your baby is doing inside the womb. Paying attention to these movements helps build your bond and can be a powerful way to keep your baby safe and thriving.
👉 Want to understand how fetal movement changes throughout pregnancy? Read the full article here
Ask Dr. Stan
1. When will I feel my baby move for the first time?
Most first-time moms start feeling fetal movement—called “quickening”—between 18 and 22 weeks. If this isn’t your first pregnancy, you might notice those little flutters as early as 16 weeks. It may feel like butterflies, bubbles, or light tapping at first. As your baby grows, those movements become stronger and more noticeable.
2. What do baby’s movements tell us about their health?
Fetal movement is a reassuring sign that your baby is doing well. Active babies are generally healthy babies! Movements reflect your baby’s development and nervous system function. A decrease in activity can be one of the first signs that something isn’t right, which is why we take any change seriously. Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re concerned.
3. Why is it important to track fetal movements in the third trimester?
The third trimester is when fetal movement becomes a critical part of monitoring your baby’s well-being. By around 28 weeks, you’ll be able to recognize your baby’s usual movement pattern. If that pattern changes—especially if movements decrease—it could be a sign your baby needs evaluation. Monitoring helps us catch and respond to issues early.
4. What’s the best way to track my baby’s kicks?
The “count to 10” method or “kick counts” is simple and reliable. Choose a time when your baby is typically active—often after a meal—then lie on your side and count how long it takes to feel 10 distinct movements. Ideally, you should feel 10 kicks or rolls within 2 hours. If not, contact your provider right away for guidance.
5. Is it normal for a baby’s movements to change near the end of pregnancy?
Yes, and no. As your baby grows and space becomes limited, their movements may feel different—less jabby and more like stretches or rolls. However, they should still be frequent and strong. A sudden drop in movement, or a baby that seems “quiet” for hours, always warrants a check-in with your pregnancy care provider.
6. What can cause decreased fetal movement?
Sometimes, decreased movement is harmless—your baby could simply be asleep, or your placenta’s position may make it harder to feel kicks. But it can also signal problems like poor placental function or fetal growth restriction. Don’t guess—if you notice a significant change, it’s important to call your provider right away for a proper evaluation.
7. Are there tools or apps that help with tracking fetal kicks?
Absolutely! There are many fetal kick-counting apps that make it easy to log and track your baby’s movements. They often send reminders and help you identify patterns over time. While these tools are helpful, they don’t replace medical care. If you’re ever unsure about what you’re feeling—or not feeling—call your provider.
8. How can I encourage my baby to move if they seem quiet?
Try lying on your left side in a quiet space and have a cold drink or something sweet like juice. Gently nudging your belly or playing soft music can also help wake your baby. But if you still don’t feel 10 movements in 2 hours, don’t wait—reach out to your care team right away.
9. What happens if I go to the hospital for decreased fetal movement?
You’ll likely have a non-stress test (NST) and possibly an ultrasound. These tests help us assess your baby’s heart rate, movement, and overall well-being. Most of the time, everything is fine, but if there is a concern, we can take action quickly. It’s always better to get checked than to wait and worry.
10. How can I feel more confident about my baby’s movement patterns?
Start by tuning in to your baby’s unique rhythm and routine—every baby is different! Kick counts are a great tool, but so is trust in your instincts. If something feels off, speak up. Open communication with your healthcare team is key to protecting your baby’s health and giving you peace of mind throughout your pregnancy journey.
