Feeling that first kick in pregnancy is an amazing feeling, especially for first time moms. (I distinctly remember seeing the remote laying on my belly "hop!") Later in pregnancy, those kicks become critical, not only helping moms to connect with their growing babies deeper, but in indicating the health and development of baby.
Your doctor will advise you on when to start counting kicks based on your unique pregnancy, but starting to monitor kicks at 28 weeks is often recommended to stay in touch and notice any changes in activity. Side lying savasana, the final pose in Om for Mom prenatal yoga, is a great time to count kicks. For one thing, you are laying on your left side, a position that helps ensure optimum circulation to the baby, which could lead to more kick activity. It's also a quiet time where you can connect with your baby and ease your mind, through the calm focus that the repetition of counting provides. According to the American Pregnancy Association, (APA) start out by timing time "how long it takes you to feel 10 kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls. Ideally, you want to feel at least 10 movements within 2 hours. You will likely feel 10 movements in much less time."
Note that what you eat, and your baby's sleep schedule dictate kicks to a large degree, so don't worry if there is less movement one day. (Eating a small snack or drinking juice can often stimulate baby to move as well). If you are concerned, wait a few hours, relax and try again. If you do not feel 10 movements within two hours the second try, contact your health care provider for advice. Make certain to alert your health care provider immediately lull in activity over the course of 3-4 days.
Your doctor will advise you on when to start counting kicks based on your unique pregnancy, but starting to monitor kicks at 28 weeks is often recommended to stay in touch and notice any changes in activity. Side lying savasana, the final pose in Om for Mom prenatal yoga, is a great time to count kicks. For one thing, you are laying on your left side, a position that helps ensure optimum circulation to the baby, which could lead to more kick activity. It's also a quiet time where you can connect with your baby and ease your mind, through the calm focus that the repetition of counting provides. According to the American Pregnancy Association, (APA) start out by timing time "how long it takes you to feel 10 kicks, flutters, swishes, or rolls. Ideally, you want to feel at least 10 movements within 2 hours. You will likely feel 10 movements in much less time."
Note that what you eat, and your baby's sleep schedule dictate kicks to a large degree, so don't worry if there is less movement one day. (Eating a small snack or drinking juice can often stimulate baby to move as well). If you are concerned, wait a few hours, relax and try again. If you do not feel 10 movements within two hours the second try, contact your health care provider for advice. Make certain to alert your health care provider immediately lull in activity over the course of 3-4 days.
