11/18/2025
Do you REALLY need to count kicks? Research shows that a noticeable change in your baby’s normal movement pattern can sometimes be an early sign of distress. Tracking kicks can help you recognize what’s normal for your baby so you can act quickly if something changes. Studies have found that maternal awareness of fetal movements can reduce the risk of stillbirth by prompting timely evaluation. Begin around 28 weeks or earlier if you have certain risk factors.
�Kick Counting Myths:
* You need 10 kicks within 2 hours.
—Normal varies from baby to baby. Track the usual pattern of movements for YOUR baby. Count the Kicks app is very helpful (see below).
* Babies slow down because they’ve run out of room near the end of pregnancy.
—Type of movement may change (more jabs, fewer big kicks), the number of movements should remain consistent. Hiccups DON’T count.
* Baby movement slows during labor.
—You should feel your baby move throughout labor, too. Pay attention after your water breaks as well.
* A dramatic increase in movement is normal.
—Any dramatic changes in movement warrants a check-in with your provider.
* Eat/Drink something sugary, drink a cold glass of water, or lay down flat for a while to get baby moving.
—NO. NO. NO. Please go see your provider. This is outdated information. When in doubt, go be seen.
* If I have a fetal doppler, I’ll be fine.
—A change in baby’s movement can sometimes detect problems before changes in heart rate can.
I highly recommend the Count The Kicks app as you get to know what’s normal for your baby, you can share your kick sessions with your provider, it has a contraction timer, and more!
Check out my blog for more information. www.lkndoula.com/blog
