Fetal movement, often described as “kicks,” indicates a developing baby’s well-being and growth. Observing these movements provides expectant parents with a non-invasive way to monitor the baby’s health from home. Tracking this activity, commonly referred to as “kick counting,” is a widely accepted practice in prenatal care. Getting to know the baby’s unique pattern of activity helps establish a baseline for what is considered normal for that individual pregnancy.
Why Monitoring Becomes Critical at 28 Weeks
The 28-week mark is the starting point for formal, daily fetal movement monitoring. Prior to this gestational age, movements are often sporadic and inconsistent, making a reliable count difficult. By the beginning of the third trimester, the fetus is large enough that movements are consistently felt, and a distinct activity pattern has developed.
At this stage, the baby establishes clear sleep and wake cycles. Periods of activity generally last between 20 and 45 minutes, rarely extending beyond 90 minutes. Consistent monitoring allows parents to recognize this individual pattern, which becomes the standard against which future movements are measured. A change from this established baseline, rather than a specific number, is the most meaningful sign of a potential issue.
Specific Guidelines for Fetal Movement Counting
The most widely recognized guideline for tracking fetal movement is the “Count to 10” method. This method involves timing how long it takes to feel ten separate movements. The standard expectation is to feel at least ten movements within a two-hour period.
It is important to count all types of activity as a movement, not just strong kicks. Movements include rolls, swishes, jabs, and flutters, but exclude involuntary actions like hiccups. Most babies achieve this target of ten movements quickly, often within 30 to 60 minutes. The goal is to establish the average time it takes for your baby to reach ten movements, ensuring daily consistency.
The Practical Steps for Daily Monitoring
Kick counting should be performed daily, ideally around the same time, to ensure an accurate comparison against the baby’s normal pattern. Choosing a time when the baby is naturally active is most effective, often in the evenings or after a meal. The baby may respond to a rise in maternal blood sugar, encouraging activity. Dedicating time to the count is important to maximize focus and avoid missing subtle movements.
To begin counting, find a comfortable position; lying on the left side is often recommended as it promotes optimal circulation and may encourage fetal activity. Start a timer or note the time, then begin counting every distinct movement until ten are felt. Using a dedicated tracking tool, such as a paper log or a smartphone application, helps record the start time, the time of the tenth movement, and the total duration. This documentation helps identify any significant deviation from the baby’s established movement pattern over several days.
What to Do If Movements Decrease
If ten movements are not felt within the two-hour counting period, the immediate next step is to attempt to stimulate the baby. Try changing your position, drinking cold water or juice, or having a small snack to see if the baby responds to the change in temperature or blood sugar. A temporary lull in activity may mean the baby is in a sleep cycle, which lasts no longer than 90 minutes.
If, after attempting stimulation, the baby still does not reach ten movements within the two-hour window, or if you perceive any sudden decrease in activity, contact your healthcare provider or hospital labor and delivery unit immediately. Never wait until the next day to report a concern about decreased movement. This change is a warning sign that requires prompt medical assessment, often including further monitoring, such as a nonstress test, to evaluate the baby’s condition.