Last updated: March 2026
Understanding Fetal Movement
Fetal movement — commonly called “baby kicks” — includes any motion you can feel from your baby: kicks, punches, rolls, swishes, and jabs. These movements typically become noticeable between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy, though first-time mothers may not feel them until closer to 25 weeks.
By the third trimester, fetal movement patterns become more regular and predictable. Most babies have active and quiet periods throughout the day, often becoming more active after meals, in the evening, or when the mother is at rest.
Healthcare providers recommend daily kick counting starting around 28 weeks because consistent fetal movement is one of the simplest and most accessible indicators of fetal well-being. A noticeable change in your baby's normal movement pattern is worth reporting to your provider.
This counter helps you build a daily record of your baby's movement patterns. Over time, you'll see trends in the history dashboard — how quickly your baby typically reaches 10 kicks, which days are more or less active, and whether the pattern is consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fetal movement counting?
Fetal movement counting (also called kick counting) is a daily practice where you track how often your baby moves during a set time period. The standard recommendation from ACOG is to count at least 10 movements within 2 hours, starting around 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Why is tracking fetal movement important?
Regular fetal movement is a sign that your baby is healthy and well. A noticeable decrease in movement can sometimes indicate a problem. By tracking daily, you learn your baby's normal pattern and can quickly identify any changes that warrant a call to your healthcare provider.
When should I be concerned about fetal movement?
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice a significant decrease from your baby's normal pattern, if your baby doesn't reach 10 movements in 2 hours after trying again, or if you haven't felt any movement for several hours. It's always better to call and check than to wait.
Is this fetal movement counter private?
Yes, completely. All data is stored in your browser's localStorage on your device only. Nothing is sent to any server, and there are no accounts or cloud storage involved. Your health data stays entirely on your device.
Can I use this counter during labor?
This tool is designed for prenatal kick counting during the third trimester, not for monitoring during labor. During labor, fetal monitoring is performed by healthcare professionals using specialized medical equipment.