Counting Kicks: Understanding Your Baby's Antenatal Movements

One of the most magical moments of pregnancy is feeling your baby move for the first time. Those gentle flutters, which soon grow into kicks and rolls, are not just reassuring—they’re also a key indicator of your baby’s well-being. Monitoring antenatal movements is a simple yet effective way to stay connected to your baby and ensure their health.

This article explains why counting your baby’s movements matters, what’s normal during pregnancy, and what to do if you notice changes. Whether you’re a first-time mum or adding to your family, understanding antenatal movements can help you feel more in tune with your growing baby.

Why Are Antenatal Movements Important?

Your baby’s movements are a sign of their health and development. Each kick, roll, or wriggle is an indicator that your baby is thriving inside the womb. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) highlights that changes in your baby’s movement patterns can sometimes indicate potential issues, making it vital to monitor their activity.

Regular antenatal movements show that:

Your baby is growing and developing normally.

They are receiving sufficient oxygen and nutrients via the placenta.

Their nervous and muscular systems are functioning as they should.

While there’s no “perfect” number of movements, knowing what’s typical for your baby helps you spot any significant changes.

When Should You Start Feeling Movements?

Most mums-to-be feel their baby’s movements between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. If this is your first pregnancy, you might notice these flutters—often called “quickening”—closer to 20 weeks. By the third trimester, movements typically become stronger and more regular.

What Counts as Movement?

Kicks

Rolls

Punches

Twists

Hiccups

Each baby is unique, so the type and strength of movements vary. Some babies are naturally more active, while others are gentler in their movements.

Establishing a Pattern: Why It Matters

By around 28 weeks, your baby will develop a regular pattern of movements. Understanding this pattern helps you identify what’s normal for your baby. According to Tommy’s PregnancyHub, your baby should continue to move regularly right up until and during labour.

Tips for Noticing Patterns:

Spend time each day quietly observing your baby’s movements, preferably after meals or when lying down.

Note times when your baby is most active—they might have their own routine!

Use a kick-counting app or a simple journal to track movements if you prefer a structured approach.

How to Count Kicks

Counting kicks doesn’t require special equipment—just time and attention. The process is straightforward, but consistency is key. Many healthcare providers recommend starting at 28 weeks, especially if you have a low-risk pregnancy.

Steps for Counting Kicks:

Find a quiet place where you can relax, such as lying on your side or sitting comfortably.

Focus on your baby’s movements. Count each kick, roll, or flutter.

Time how long it takes to feel 10 movements. Most babies will reach 10 movements in under two hours.

Tip: If your baby is less active, try having a snack or a cold drink, as this can sometimes encourage movement.

What’s Normal and What’s Not

No two pregnancies are the same, and what’s normal for one baby might not be normal for another. The NHS advises that the important thing is to notice your baby’s usual pattern and watch for any changes.

Normal Variations:

Movements might feel softer or less frequent when your baby is in a sleep cycle.

As your baby grows, movements may feel different but should not decrease in frequency.

When to Seek Help:

If you notice fewer movements or no movements at all.

If your baby’s movements suddenly become unusually vigorous or erratic.

If you have any concerns, trust your instincts and contact your midwife or antenatal clinic immediately.

Source: Kicks Count, a UK-based charity, emphasises the importance of acting promptly if you’re concerned about reduced movements, as timely care can prevent complications.

Common Questions About Antenatal Movements

Can Movements Be Too Strong?

Strong movements are usually a sign of a healthy baby. However, if the movements feel unusually forceful or painful, it’s worth mentioning to your midwife during your antenatal appointments.

What If I Don’t Feel Movements?

If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy (before 24 weeks), it’s normal to go a day or two without noticing movements, especially if you’re busy. However, after 28 weeks, reduced movements should always be checked.

Can Stress Affect Movements?

High stress levels may sometimes alter your baby’s activity. Practising relaxation techniques, such as antenatal yoga or breathing exercises, can help you stay calm and connected to your baby.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Pregnancies

If you have a high-risk pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, tracking movements is particularly important. Regular antenatal checkups and scans will also help monitor your baby’s well-being.

Tip: Discuss movement patterns with your healthcare provider and ask for advice on kick counting tailored to your needs.

Supporting Mums-to-Be: The Role of Antenatal Classes

Antenatal classes are an excellent way to learn more about your baby’s movements and overall pregnancy care. These classes often include:

Education on fetal development and movement monitoring.

Tips for recognising changes in movement patterns.

Breathing and relaxation techniques to stay calm during pregnancy.

Search for “antenatal classes near me” or ask your midwife for local options.

Tools to Help You Monitor Movements

Kick Counting Apps: Apps like Kicks Count Tracker help you record movements easily.

Journals: A simple notebook can be a handy way to track daily patterns.

Support Networks: Charities like Kicks Count offer guidance and resources for monitoring movements.

What to Do If You Notice Changes

If you notice a change in your baby’s usual movements, contact your midwife or antenatal clinic immediately. Reduced movements can sometimes indicate that your baby is not receiving enough oxygen or nutrients. Acting quickly ensures your baby gets the care they need.

The NHS advises against waiting until the next day or your next antenatal appointment if you’re concerned. Trust your instincts and seek help right away.

UK-Based Resources for Further Support

NHS Pregnancy Services: Comprehensive guidance on monitoring movements and when to seek help. Visit NHS Pregnancy Care

Tommy’s PregnancyHub: Offers expert advice on pregnancy health and movement monitoring. Visit Tommy’s

Kicks Count: A UK charity dedicated to raising awareness about baby movements. Visit Kicks Count

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Intuition

Counting your baby’s movements is a simple yet powerful way to stay connected and ensure their well-being. Every kick and roll is a reminder of the life growing inside you, and understanding these movements brings you closer to your baby.

Remember, you know your baby best. If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out for support. By staying attuned to your baby’s antenatal movements, you’re giving them the best possible start in life.