Track Fetal Movements & Monitor Baby's Health

Monitoring fetal movement is a critical component of prenatal care. Research shows that a decrease in fetal movement can be an early warning sign of fetal distress. Regular kick counting helps mothers recognize their baby's normal activity patterns, enabling early detection of potential problems.

Studies indicate that maternal awareness of fetal movement and timely reporting of reduced movement may help reduce stillbirth rates. This simple daily practice empowers you to take an active role in monitoring your baby's well-being between prenatal appointments.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women begin monitoring fetal movement around 28 weeks of gestation, when movement patterns become more consistent and predictable.

At this stage, your baby has developed regular sleep-wake cycles, making it easier to establish a baseline for normal activity. However, every pregnancy is unique—always follow your healthcare provider's specific recommendations for your situation.

The Count-to-10 method is a widely recommended fetal movement counting technique endorsed by healthcare providers. The process is simple: find a comfortable position, note the time, and count distinct movements (kicks, rolls, jabs, or flutters) until you reach 10.

Most healthy babies will move 10 times within 2 hours, often much faster when they're in an active period. If you don't feel 10 movements within 2 hours, contact your healthcare provider immediately for evaluation.

Contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital immediately if:

• You notice a significant decrease in fetal movement
• You don't feel 10 movements within 2 hours
• Your baby's movement pattern changes dramatically
• You haven't felt any movement for several hours

Never wait until the next day—reduced fetal movement requires prompt medical evaluation. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, get checked.