HELP ME GROW: Your Baby’s Kicks Count!

Did you know your baby’s kicks are telling you something? Counting kicks during every pregnancy is important. It helps you monitor your baby’s health and may help to prevent stillbirth. You should keep track of your baby’s kicks when you hit your 24th week of pregnancy.

It’s important to know what times are best to count your baby’s kicks. Most moms find that their babies are active after eating or exercising. Taking the time to do your kick counts is a great time to bond with your baby! Counting kicks is easy to do and doesn’t take long. It helps you get to know the personality of your baby by his or her movements. Ready to start?

Find whatever position is comfortable for you, like sitting in a chair or lying on your side. Then start counting! There are many ways to count your baby’s movements. Be sure to track how long it takes for you to feel 10 kicks or rolls within 2 hours. Keeping a notebook and pen handy can help you keep track of your kicks.

If you have been counting your kicks and don’t feel 10 kicks by the end of the 2 hours, wait a few hours and try again. If you don’t feel 10 kicks in two hours, contact your healthcare provider, no matter what time of day it is or what day of the week. Tell them, “My baby isn’t moving.” Don’t wait 24 hours when there is no movement or significant changes in your baby’s movements. When it doubt, contact your healthcare provider!

If you are ever in doubt of the best practices to follow or are worried if your baby’s development is on track, dial 2-1-1 Help Me Grow to put your mind at ease. This confidential and free service will put you in touch with an experienced specialist who will listen to you and get you the help you need.