The 'Count to 10' Method: Is It the Best Way to Track Movements? - Fetal Movement Counter Blog

Posted on October 7, 2025

If you’ve started looking into kick counting, you’ve almost certainly come across the "Count to 10" method. It’s the most well-known technique and the one most often recommended by doctors. But what is it, really? And is it the whole story when it comes to monitoring your baby? Let's get into it.

So, What's the "Count to 10" Deal?

It's pretty much what it sounds like. You pick a time of day when your baby is usually having a little party in there. Then, you sit back, relax, and time how long it takes to feel 10 distinct movements—kicks, rolls, swishes, you name it. The general rule of thumb is that if you feel 10 movements in under two hours, everything is likely A-OK.

What's Great About It?

It’s a No-Brainer: It’s simple to do and easy to remember. No fancy equipment needed.
It’s Clear-Cut: You get a definite "yes" or "no." Did you feel 10 movements in two hours? Yes? Great. This can cut down on a lot of the guesswork.
It’s a Trusted Safety Net: If two hours go by and you haven't felt those 10 movements, it’s a clear, universally recognized sign to pick up the phone and call your doctor or midwife.

But Here's What It's Missing...

It's Not the Full Picture: The biggest downside is that it doesn't care about your baby's *personal* best. Let's say your baby is an Olympic-level kicker who usually hits 10 movements in 15 minutes. If one day it takes them 90 minutes, the "Count to 10" method gives it a passing grade. But for *your* baby, that's a huge slowdown and something you'd want to notice.
It Can Miss the Slow Fade: Because it only focuses on that one two-hour window, it might not catch a more gradual decrease in your baby's activity throughout the rest of the day.

The Gold Standard: "Count to 10" Meets Pattern Tracking

So, what's the ultimate approach? Use the "Count to 10" method as your non-negotiable safety net, but don't stop there. By also using an app like our Fetal Movement Counter to log how long it takes to reach 10 kicks *every day*, you get the best of both worlds. You create a rich history of your baby's unique patterns. This empowers you to see not just if you hit the 10-kick mark, but if it's taking longer than usual—giving you a much smarter, more nuanced way to watch over your baby.

Just a friendly reminder: This article is for informational purposes only and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice. Always chat with your healthcare provider about any concerns you have during your pregnancy.

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