Fetal movement refers to the motion of a fetus caused by its own muscle activity. You may feel your baby move as early as 16 weeks of pregnancy, but most women usually feel something between 18 and 24 weeks. If this is your first pregnancy, you may not notice your baby’s movements until you are more than 20 weeks pregnant.
Baby movements in the womb, also known as fetal movements or ‘kicks’, can feel like anything from a flutter, kick, swish or roll. The type of movement may change as your pregnancy progresses.
There is no set number of normal movements you should be feeling – every baby is different. From 18–24 weeks onward, you should feel the baby move more and more. After 32 weeks, the movements will stay roughly the same until you give birth.
Feeling your baby move is a sign they are well. If your baby moves less or you notice a change, this can sometimes be an important warning sign that the baby is unwell. Immediate care can make a huge difference.
Important: Don’t assume reduced movement is due to these factors—always contact your midwife or maternity unit if you’re concerned.
Fetal movement counting, also known as kick counting, is a way to monitor your baby’s health. Pick a time of day and count how long it takes to feel 10 movements. It’s best to do this at the same time each day.
If you don’t reach 10 movements in an hour, try eating a snack or changing your position. Continue counting for another hour. If movement is still low or changes noticeably from your usual pattern, contact your healthcare provider.