Counting baby kicks correctly

You will begin to feel Your Child’s movement sometime between 18-25 weeks into the pregnancy. 

First-time moms usually start feeling closer to 25 weeks, while for second or third-time moms, it may occur closer to 18 weeks.

How do I learn to count kicks?
If you’re not sure what you’re feeling, don’t panic. For a few weeks, it may be difficult to distinguish between bowel gas and the real thing, but very soon, you will notice a pattern. You will gradually learn your baby’s sleeping and waking cycles, when Your Child is most active, and what seems to trigger activity.

What is the benefit of kick counting?
Obviously, being attentive to your baby’s movements will help you notice any significant changes. Setting aside time every day when you know Your Child is active to count kicks may help identify potential problems, especially for high-risk pregnancies.

When to feel the kicks?
Generally, expecting moms find their babies most active after eating a meal or something sweet, drinking something icy, or after physical activity. Also, you may find Your Child to be more active between 9:00 pm, and 1:00 am, as your blood sugar level is declining.

How do I start?
You may start by finding a comfortable position when Your Child is usually most active.

Counting Your Child’s movements correctly.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that you time how long it takes you to feel 10 kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls. Ideally, you should feel at least 10 movements within 2 hours. Do not panic if you don’t feel all 10 movements Your Child may simply be sleeping.

Identifying real problems
If two hours go by and you recorded zero to less than 10 movements, have something to eat or drink and count for another two hours. If you do not record 10 movements in the next 2-hour period, call your doctor right away.

Tracking movements
You can record and track the time you feel Your Child’s kicks. This way, you’ll observe patterns and learn about your child’s behavior, sleeping patterns, and what the little one reacts to.