How do I track baby movements / kick counting in the third trimester, and what if movements drop?

The community consensus is to count movements after meals (commonly aiming for 10 kicks, or at least 5 in half an hour), and to drink something cold and sweet then recount if movements seem low. A sustained, drastic drop from your baby's normal pattern means go to the hospital right away.

Community Answers from Moms(6)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

1. 1

   After each meal, count 10 kicks within an hour; if movement seems less, drink something cold and recount. Hiccups don't count as kicks. If kicks stay less, see the doctor.

2. 2

   Counting can take 1-2 hours, but finishing in 15-20 minutes is absolutely fine - babies are sometimes lazy. Watch for changes from the ordinary, like a usually active baby being still one day.

3. 3

   Monitor movements after meals in the last month. Babies can be lazy for a couple of hours, but if movements are drastically low for more than that, go in immediately. Drinking something like Frooti or a cold/sweet drink and rechecking can help.

4. 4

   With gestational diabetes, try a cold sweet drink (Diet Coke) or buttermilk and recheck; aim for at least 5 movements in half an hour after meals.

5. 5

   Reduced movement could occasionally signal IUGR or a baby running out of space - if it's drastically low, see a doctor and be on bedrest until reviewed.

6. 6

   Sometimes gas makes movement feel less and there's nothing to worry about, but if you can't tell, don't hesitate to visit the doctor.