Baby Movements in Pregnancy: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help
- Hannah Ketcher
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 10
Understanding Your Baby’s Movements in Pregnancy
By around 24 weeks of pregnancy, many parents begin to notice that their baby is developing a more regular pattern of movements.
Every baby is different, but over the coming weeks you will likely start to recognise times of day when your baby tends to be more active, and times when they are quieter.
If you haven’t noticed a clear pattern yet, it can help to gently begin tuning in.
Getting to Know Your Baby’s Pattern
Some parents find it helpful to set aside a little time each day to focus on their baby’s movements. For example:
First thing in the morning before getting out of bed
After meals, such as after lunch
In the evening when lying down to rest
The aim isn’t that your baby needs to move at each of these times. Rather, by checking in regularly over a number of days, you may begin to recognise what feels typical for your baby.
As your pregnancy progresses, this awareness can become really valuable in helping you understand what is normal.
Every Baby Moves Differently
It’s very natural to compare — especially if you’ve been pregnant before or have friends who are also expecting. But every baby has their own unique pattern of movement.
Some babies are naturally more active, while others have quieter, more subtle patterns.
If you’ve had a previous pregnancy, you may notice that this baby feels completely different — and that is entirely normal.
What matters most is not how your baby compares to others, but what is normal for your baby.
Every baby has their own unique pattern of movement.
How Movements Change as Pregnancy Progresses
As the weeks go on, your baby’s movements will usually become:
Stronger
More noticeable
More regular in pattern
You may begin to recognise stretches, kicks, rolls, and turns — which can also be a lovely way of continuing to connect with your baby.
Importantly, movements should not slow down towards the end of pregnancy — although the type of movement may change as space becomes more limited. To more of a stretching feeling rather than a big kick.
When to Seek Advice About Baby’s Movements
It’s important to trust your instincts when it comes to your baby’s movements.
Seek advice the same day if:
You notice a reduction in your baby’s usual movements
Your baby’s pattern feels different or less active than normal
You are unsure whether movements are typical for your baby
Do not wait until the next day to seek advice — it’s always best to be assessed.
Seek urgent advice if:
You have not felt your baby move at all
You feel something isn’t right
Contact your maternity unit or NHS team straight away.
A Note on “Counting Kicks”
You may come across advice about “counting kicks.” Rather than focusing on a specific number, current guidance is to focus on your baby’s individual pattern.
There is no set number of movements that is considered “normal” for every baby — what matters is what is normal for yours.
A Reassuring Note
Most pregnancies progress with healthy, active babies.
This stage — where movements become more recognisable — can be both reassuring and a meaningful way to build connection with your baby.
It is also completely normal if you find them uncomfortable or aren't sure how you feel about them. Not all mums enjoy feeling their baby move.
If you ever feel unsure, concerned, or simply need reassurance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are never wasting anyone’s time.
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