Expectant mothers eagerly await the first flutter or kick from their little one, marking a reassuring sign of growth and development. Typically, fetal movements begin to be felt between 18 to 25 weeks of pregnancy. First-time moms might notice this closer to the 25-week mark, while those who have been pregnant before may feel it around 18 weeks.
Don’t worry if you’re unsure about what you’re experiencing at first. In the initial weeks, it can be hard to differentiate between gas and actual movement, but soon you’ll identify a pattern. Over time, you’ll become familiar with your baby’s sleep and activity cycles, learning when they are most active and what might trigger those movements.
Monitoring your baby’s movements can help you detect any significant changes. Setting aside time each day to count kicks, rolls, and shifts can aid in identifying potential issues, ultimately helping to prevent stillbirth. While this practice is especially recommended for high-risk pregnancies, counting movements starting at 28 weeks can be beneficial for all expectant moms.
Cherishing These Precious Moments
Moms often find that their babies are particularly active after eating, especially something sweet, after drinking something cold, or following physical activity. You might notice that your baby tends to be more energetic between 9 PM and 1 AM, possibly due to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
Taking the time to count kicks encourages you to relax and fosters a deeper connection with your baby. Start by finding a comfortable position during times when your baby is typically more active. Some women like to sit supported, cradling their bellies with their arms, while others prefer lying on their left side, which is not only more comfortable but also enhances blood circulation, potentially leading to increased fetal activity.
Counting Your Baby’s Movements
There are various methods for counting fetal movements, and opinions vary on how many movements to look for within a specific time frame. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests measuring how long it takes to feel 10 kicks, flutters, rolls, or other movements. Ideally, you want to feel at least 10 movements within a 2-hour window, although you may notice 10 movements in a shorter time.
Consider keeping a journal or utilizing the various charts available online. In your journal, note the time you feel the first fetal movement, mark each movement until you reach 10, and then record the time of the tenth movement. This will help you track patterns and understand how long it typically takes for your baby to move 10 times. Pay attention to any significant deviations from your established pattern.
While you might be tempted to expect a precise timeframe each time you count kicks, remember that variability is normal. The key is to note any significant changes in movement patterns over several days.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
If you follow the above guidelines and do not feel 10 movements by the end of the second hour, wait a few hours and try again. If, after a second attempt, you still don’t feel 10 movements in 2 hours, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you notice a significant deviation in movement patterns over the course of 3-4 days, you should also seek medical advice.
Example for Keeping Track of Your Kicks
Week 28
- Monday 9:00 AM XXXXXXXXXX 9:32 AM Total: 32 min
- Tuesday 12:00 PM XXXXXXXXXX 12:45 PM Total: 45 min
- Wednesday 9:00 AM XXXXXXXXXX 10:00 AM Total: 1 hr.
- Thursday 9:00 AM XXXXXXXXXX 11:15 AM Total: 2 hrs. 15 min.
(If you notice a significant change like this, be sure to inform your healthcare provider).
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In summary, tracking your baby’s movements is essential for monitoring their health and development during pregnancy. Recognizing patterns and being aware of any significant changes can lead to better outcomes for both mother and child.