What are kick counts and when should i do them?

3rd trimester: Your obstetrician should be able to tell you more about this, but most providers advise patients to do kick counts after 28 weeks of pregnancy, daily. There are different guidelines but most agree that there should be about 10 movements or kicks in a 2 hour period. This is a good sign that the baby is healthy. If movement is decreased, it may mean you need to call or see your doctor.

Kick counts: Kick counts should typically occur 10 times in a 2 hour period. You will typically feel them 18-25 weeks into pregnancy. If you don't feel 10 in 2 hours continue again for another 2 hours. If still not 10 contact your doctor. They feel like a kick, flutter, swish or roll. Sometimes they follow a pattern and are more active at different times of the day.

Baby movement: Kick counts are a way to determine if your baby is doing well. You count the number of times you feel the baby move in an hour. It should move at least 7-10 times in an hour. These are started around 28 weeks. If you ever think that you baby isn't moving, you should call your OB immediately.