From 28 weeks of pregnancy until delivery, one of the best ways to keep track of a healthy baby is by counting the baby’s movements. Healthy babies are very active, especially in the evening after dinner. However, some perfectly normal babies may sleep quietly for as long as 60 minutes without moving. Babies are usually sluggish and move less when they are having problems. Counting your baby’s movements can warn you and your health care provider of any developing problems.

The following instructions can help you and your health care provider be sure that your baby is feeling well.

• You may count at any time of the day, when you feel your baby is more active. For most women, this is in the evening after dinner when you are lying down and quiet. Get into a position that you normally feel your baby move. Lying on your side is best. Record the time that you start counting.
• Count ten separate times that the baby moves. A movement may be a kick, turn or flip of the baby.
• Record the time you feel the 10th movement. If you count 10 movements in less than two hours, stop counting until tomorrow.

If you do not feel 10 movements in two hours, call your health care provider.

Remember:

• Your baby may move all 10 time in 1/2 hour or less.
• Your baby may take up to two hours to move 10 times.
• The important thing is to know what is normal for your baby so you can tell your health care provider if something different happens.

Call your healthcare provider if:

• You do not feel 10 movements in two hours.
• You have not felt the baby move all day.
• It takes longer and longer each evening to get to the 10th movement.