Fetal Movement Counting

From 28 weeks of pregnancy until delivery, fetal movement counting is a helpful way to keep track of your baby's activity levels. Sometimes, babies are sluggish and move less when they are having problems. Counting your baby’s movements can help your healthcare provider identify potential developing problems.

How to Count Fetal Movement

The following general instructions can help you monitor your baby's movements. Your doctor may have slightly different instructions for how to count fetal movements, sometimes called a kick count. Always follow your doctor’s individual instructions.

• Sit quietly in a comfortable position or lie down on your left side. Pick a time when you have recently had something to eat or when you know your baby is active. Record the time that you start counting.
• Count each kick, swish, roll or jab that you feel. Once you have felt 10 movements, write down the length of time it took. Ten movements should occur in less than two hours once a day.

Call your healthcare provider if:

• You have not felt the baby move all day.
• It takes longer and longer each evening to get to your usual movement count.