• When you are finally far enough along in your pregnancy to consistently feel your little one moving, your doctor might suggest doing kick counts. They are exactly what they sound like, counting the kicks your baby makes in a set amount of time. This just ensures that baby is in there doing what they are supposed to.

    For me, I was never a regimented counter. I started to be with my first born, but quickly grew anxious every time the kicks slowed down, or sped up, or whatever it might have been. So with all my subsequent pregnancies I was far more lax. That’s not to say that I never counted, I was just smarter about my methods.

    For me, I was never a regimented counter. I started to be with my first born, but quickly grew anxious every time the kicks slowed down, or sped up, or whatever it might have been.

    First, I paid attention to what times of days my baby was most active. Usually it was about an hour after I ate, or right when I laid down to go to bed at night. Then at those times, if I felt him moving great. I didn’t count. I just relaxed and enjoyed the sensations. Only when I couldn’t feel the baby moving at those regular times did I count. And then I would drink a glass of cold orange juice, and lay on my left side. Depending on your situation you may need to count ten moves in 2 hours, or ten moves in one hour.

    Ask your doctor which is right for you. If drinking juice doesn’t get your baby started don’t be afraid to give your doctor a call. It’s what you pay them for, and like mine always said, “I’d rather you call us and be safe than sorry.” Never worry about bothering your doctor, or looking silly. I’ve gone in for low fetal movement several times, and nothing has ever been wrong. But at least I felt better, and I know my baby appreciated that!