Monitoring fetal movements

In your last trimester of pregnancy, you can monitor your fetus's health by noting the length of time it takes to count 10 fetal movements (such as kicks, flutters, or rolls). If you are doing "kick counts," record the times each day. Bring this record with you to each prenatal visit.

• Feeling 10 movements in less than 1 hour is considered normal. On average, women count 10 movements in 12 minutes.
• When you are active, you may notice less movement than when you are resting quietly.
• If you feel less than 10 movements in 1 hour, count for a second hour. If the movement count remains low, contact your doctor or nurse-midwife immediately, regardless of the time of day or night.