Fetal Movement
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 30, 2025.
What is fetal movement?
Fetal movements are the kicks, rolls, and hiccups of your unborn baby. You may start to feel these movements when you are between 18 to 20 weeks pregnant. The movements become stronger and more frequent as your baby grows. You should feel your baby move right up to, and during labor. Fetal movements show that your baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrients. Fewer fetal movements may signal a problem with your baby's health.
What will my baby's movements feel like?
Your baby will develop his or her own movement pattern. You may feel your baby's movements as a kick, flutter, stretch, or roll. There may be times when your baby is still for up to 2 hours. During the first trimester (weeks 1 to 12) you may not feel any fetal movement. This is because the fetus is too small. During the second trimester (weeks 13 to 28) you may feel the first fetal movements as early as 16 weeks. You will notice stronger movements more often during the third trimester (weeks 29 to 40). Your baby may be more active at certain times of the day.
What can affect fetal movement?
You may feel your baby move more after you eat, or after you drink caffeine. You may feel your baby move less while you are more active, such as when you exercise. You may also feel fewer movements if you have obesity. Certain medicines can change your baby's movements. Tell your healthcare provider about the medicines you take. The position of your baby or placenta may change the baby's movements, or the way you feel them. A low level of amniotic fluid can make your baby move less. Fetal movement may be reduced when your baby sleeps.
How do I track my unborn baby's movements at home?
Fetal movement is most often felt when you lie quietly on your side. Your healthcare provider may ask you to count movements for 2 hours every day. Your provider may ask you to track how long it takes for your baby to move 10 times. Keep a log of your baby's movements. A smartphone application (app) can help you track fetal movement over time. Ask your provider which app is best for you.
What tests can track my unborn baby's movements?
- A fetal ultrasound uses sound waves to show pictures of your baby on a monitor. Healthcare providers check your baby's movement, heart rate, and position.
- A nonstress test may be used to record your baby's heart rate. A small metal disc with gel on it is placed on your abdomen. A belt is wrapped around your abdomen to hold the disc in place.
- Fetal Doppler velocimetry uses sound waves to check the blood flow inside your placenta and umbilical cord. A small metal disc with gel on it is placed on your abdomen.
- A biophysical profile combines an ultrasound and a nonstress test. This test is used to check fetal movement, breathing, muscle tone, and the level of the amniotic fluid.
Where can I find more information about fetal movement?
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
P.O. Box 70620
Washington , DC 20024-9998
Phone: 1- 202 - 638-5577
Phone: 1- 800 - 673-8444
Web Address: http://www.acog.org
When should I seek immediate care?
- You do not feel your unborn baby move for 12 hours.
- You feel cramping or constant pain in your abdomen.
- You have heavy bleeding from your vagina.
- You have a severe headache and cannot see clearly.
- You have trouble breathing or are vomiting.
- You have a seizure.
When should I call my doctor or obstetrician?
- It takes longer than usual to feel 10 fetal movements.
- You do not feel your unborn baby move at least 10 times in 2 hours.
- The skin on your hands, feet, and around your eyes is more swollen than usual.
- You have a headache for at least 24 hours.
- Tiny red dots appear on your skin.
- Your belly is tender when you press on it.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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