Pay attention to your belly: your baby’s pushing, kicking, and jostling can tell you about your baby’s wellbeing.
The moment you first feel your baby moving is thrilling. Most mamas will recognize their baby’s movements after about 20 weeks. However, women who have already had children and are familiar with the feeling of a baby kicking may notice movements earlier, around week 16 [1].
What does the first kick feel like?
The first sensations are usually barely noticeable: you may notice a faint bubbling or slight vibration in the abdomen [2]. However, a lot of new mamas don’t feel anything. Do not worry: the baby will definitely get your attention through their kicks and shoves. As your pregnancy progresses, your baby will become more active: kicking, pushing, and turning from side to side [3].
If you do not feel baby's movements after 24 weeks, tell your doctor. She will conduct special tests to determine the well-being of the baby [4].
Why are baby’s movements important?
Doctors can learn about a baby’s development from their movement [2]. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to pay attention to their bellies. There is no standard for the type of movements or frequency: every child is unique. As you pay attention to the kicks and twists, you will learn what is typical for your babe. If your baby is moving less than usual or their usual pattern of movements changes, call your doctor or maternity unit right away [5].
Should I count the movements?
No, you don’t need to count your baby’s kicks: there’s no set number of movements you should feel each day, and every baby is different. What matters is getting to know your baby’s usual pattern of movements — pushing, kicking, turning — from day to day. If your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern changes, call your doctor or maternity unit right away; don’t wait until the next day [2].
