Tracking Fetal Movements
How to count kicks and when to call the caregiver
Why Count Movements
An active baby is a healthy baby. If a baby is not getting enough oxygen, it slows movements to conserve oxygen. There is usually enough time between the onset of slowing and a serious situation to act. Counting movements sometimes detects problems before they become emergencies.
The Count-to-10 Method
Start at roughly the same time every day, ideally after a meal when the baby is most active. Note the time. Count each movement (a kick, a wiggle, a sustained squirm, hiccups do not count). When you reach ten, note the time and calculate how long it took.
- Most babies move 10 times in well under an hour
- The key is not speed but consistency, the same degree of activity from day to day
- Call the caregiver if the baby takes more than 2 hours to reach 10 movements
- Call if the baby's movement pattern suddenly decreases
Partner's Role
Some birthing people find counting fun and reassuring. Others find it makes them worry. If your partner wants to count, do it together sometimes, you learn about the baby too, and your presence can reduce stress.