One of the most exciting moments of pregnancy is feeling your baby move for the first time. These tiny flutters can feel magical and reassuring, marking a beautiful milestone in your pregnancy journey. But when exactly do baby kicks start, what do they feel like, and how often should you feel them?
Here's everything you need to know about feeling your baby move, including guidance on what’s normal, when to speak to your midwife, and how these movements change throughout your pregnancy.
When Will I Feel My Baby Kick?
Most people begin to feel their baby move between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. If it’s your first pregnancy, you may not notice movements until around 20 to 24 weeks. If you’ve been pregnant before, you may feel them earlier, closer to 16 weeks.
These first movements are often referred to as "quickening" and can be easy to miss or mistake for wind or muscle twitches.
According to the NHS, you should feel your baby move by 24 weeks at the latest. If you haven’t, you should speak to your midwife.
What Do Baby Kicks Feel Like?
Early baby movements can feel different for everyone. You might describe it as:
- Fluttering
- Tapping
- Bubbles or popcorn popping
- A gentle roll or swish
As your baby grows, their movements will become stronger and more defined. Later in pregnancy, you’ll be able to tell the difference between:
- Kicks or punches
- Stretching or turning
- Hiccups (gentle rhythmic twitches)
It’s common to feel more movements when you’re relaxed, lying down, or after eating a meal. You might also notice a pattern, such as baby being more active in the evening.
When Should I Start Monitoring Movements?
By around week 24 to 28, your baby’s movements should start forming a regular pattern. This doesn’t mean moving constantly, but you should start to notice times of the day when your baby is active.
The NHS states you should get to know your baby’s individual pattern and report any change in movement to your midwife or maternity unit immediately.
You do not need to keep a formal kick chart, but paying attention to your baby's regular rhythm is important.
What If I Don't Feel My Baby Move?
If you haven’t felt your baby move by week 24, or if at any point you notice a reduction or change in movements, always speak to your midwife or maternity triage unit straight away. Never wait until the next day.
Many parents worry about causing a fuss, but it's always best to get checked. Midwives take changes in fetal movement very seriously as it can sometimes be a sign that your baby is unwell.
How Often Should My Baby Move?
There is no set number of movements a baby should have. Instead, focus on what is normal for your baby.
Movements may include:
- Kicks
- Rolls
- Swishes
- Flutters
They will increase in strength and frequency up to around 32 weeks. From then on, they should stay consistent until you go into labour. Movements do not slow down at the end of pregnancy.
What Can Affect How You Feel Movements?
You may feel movements differently depending on:
- Placenta position: An anterior placenta (at the front of the uterus) may cushion the movements, making them harder to feel
- Your activity level: You may not notice movements when you're busy or distracted
- Body position: Lying on your side can help you feel movements more clearly
- Baby's position: If baby is facing your back, kicks may be less noticeable
Helping Yourself Feel Baby Move
If you’re unsure whether baby is moving or want to check in:
- Lie down on your left side and focus for at least an hour
- Drink a cold drink or eat a small snack
- Rest and tune in without distractions
Still concerned? Always contact your midwife or maternity unit. They may bring you in for a check-up or scan to ensure everything is okay.
What Are Baby Hiccups?
Fetal hiccups often begin in the second or third trimester and feel like small, repetitive twitches. They’re completely normal and happen as your baby practices using their diaphragm.
Not all babies get hiccups, but if yours does, it usually means they are developing well.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Don’t worry if early movements are hard to spot, they’ll become stronger with time
- Try lying on your side to tune into movements
- Don’t wait if you notice fewer kicks - always call your midwife
- Your baby's movements should not slow down, even close to labour
- Learn your baby’s pattern - it will help you know what’s normal for them
Feeling your baby move is one of the most incredible and reassuring parts of pregnancy. From early flutters to strong kicks and stretches, each movement is a sign your baby is growing and thriving.
By getting to know your baby’s pattern and being aware of any changes, you’re playing an important role in keeping them safe. Trust your instincts and speak up if anything feels different.
