This information is for general guidance only.

It does not replace advice from your midwife or maternity team. Read more about our approach.

Baby movements in pregnancy: what to expect and when to call

Feeling your baby move is one of the most reassuring parts of pregnancy. This guide covers when to expect first movements, how the pattern changes through pregnancy, and exactly when to pick up the phone.

When will I feel my baby move for the first time?

First movements (sometimes called “quickening”) are typically felt between 16 and 24 weeks. In a first pregnancy, it is often not until after 20 weeks. In a second or subsequent pregnancy you usually feel them earlier, from around 16 weeks, because you know what you are looking for.

Early movements feel like gentle fluttering, bubbles or swirling. Many parents describe them as “butterflies” or “popcorn popping”. They are easy to miss or confuse with wind, especially early on.

If you have not felt any movements by 24 weeks, contact your midwife. They will check the heartbeat and can arrange a scan if needed.

How movements change throughout pregnancy

  1. Weeks 16-20

    First flutterings

    Like butterflies, bubbles or popcorn. Often mistaken for digestion at first.

  2. Weeks 20-28

    Regular kicks and rolls

    Movements become more distinct. You may feel a clear foot or elbow.

  3. Weeks 28-32

    Stronger and more frequent

    Your baby is larger and your pattern starts to emerge.

  4. Weeks 32-36

    Established pattern

    Get to know what is normal for your baby. Active times and quiet times repeat day to day.

  5. Weeks 36-40

    Movements should NOT slow down

    The type of movement may change (less rolling, more jabs) as space gets tight, but frequency should stay consistent. Slowing down is not normal and needs reporting.

  6. During labour

    Movements continue between contractions

    You should still feel your baby move between contractions. Report any reduction to your midwife immediately.

Kick counter

Tap the button each time you feel a movement. This tool helps you notice your baby's pattern. It is not a medical device and cannot assess your baby's health. If you are concerned about movements, call your midwife.

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What is a “normal” pattern?

There is no set number of movements a baby should make in a day. Every baby is different. Movements come as kicks, rolls, jabs and rhythmic tapping (hiccups). The pattern tends to establish itself from around 28 weeks.

Babies have short sleep cycles of 20 to 40 minutes, so brief quiet periods are normal. What matters is knowing your baby's pattern, and noticing any change from it.

A myth worth busting

“Your baby should move 10 times in 2 hours.” This counting method is no longer recommendedby the NHS or Tommy's. The current advice is to focus on pattern, not a number.

What affects how you feel movements

Your position

You feel movements more when sitting or lying still. Standing and walking can mask them.

Placenta position

An anterior (front-facing) placenta cushions kicks and makes movements harder to feel.

Time of day

Many babies are more active in the evening and settle during the day.

After eating

Some babies are more active after a meal, especially after sweet foods.

How busy you are

You may not notice movements while distracted. Sit quietly with a drink to check in.

Your baby's own rhythm

Sleep cycles of 20-40 minutes are normal. Quiet patches are not the same as reduced movements.

Hiccups are normal and lovely

From around 28 weeks, many parents notice rhythmic, repetitive tapping that feels like a regular pulse. These are hiccups. They are completely normal and a sign your baby's nervous system is developing. They can last a few minutes and happen several times a day. Unlike kicks, they stay in one place.

Related guides and tools

Week-by-week development guide→ Movements in twin pregnancies→ Your NHS antenatal appointments→ Signs that labour has started→

A note from our team

This guide reflects NHS UK and Tommy's charity guidance on baby movements in pregnancy. If in any doubt at all about your baby's movements, call your maternity unit without delay. Read more about us.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start feeling baby move?
Most first-time parents feel movements between 18 and 24 weeks. In a second or subsequent pregnancy you often feel them earlier, from around 16 weeks, because you recognise the sensation. If you have not felt any movement by 24 weeks, tell your midwife so they can check the heartbeat and arrange an ultrasound if needed.
Why has my baby gone quiet today?
If you notice a change from your baby's usual pattern, do not wait. Contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away, even at night. Most of the time all will be well, but your team would always rather check. Do not try to wake the baby with cold drinks or sugar, and do not use a home doppler. Just call.
Is it normal not to feel movements every day?
Until around 24 to 28 weeks, movements are often inconsistent. You may go a day without feeling much, especially if you are busy. From around 28 weeks, you should have a reasonably predictable pattern. After that, any day where you notice a clear reduction from the usual pattern should be reported.
What does reduced movement feel like?
Reduced movement means fewer movements than you have come to expect over a day, or movements that are noticeably weaker. It can also mean a shift in the type of movement — for example, rolls becoming only small flutters. Trust your instincts: if you feel something is different, that is reason enough to ring.
What is an anterior placenta and does it affect movement?
An anterior placenta sits on the front wall of the uterus, between your baby and your tummy. It cushions kicks, so movements can be harder to feel, especially in the middle of pregnancy. Your baby is still moving normally, but you may feel more fluttering and fewer strong jabs. Always report a change from your usual pattern.
Can I use a Doppler at home to check my baby?
No. Hearing a heartbeat on a home doppler does not mean your baby is well, and it can give false reassurance. The heartbeat you hear may even be your own blood flow. If you are worried about movements, call your midwife straight away rather than checking with a doppler.