When to Call Your Doctor: Red Flags in Fetal Movement

Posted on October 7, 2025


The golden rule of fetal movement counting is: **never hesitate to call your doctor or midwife.** Your medical team would much rather hear from you and have it be a false alarm than have you wait when there is a genuine concern. Here are the key red flags to watch for.

Red Flag 1: A Significant Decrease in Movement

This is the most important sign. You know your baby's normal pattern better than anyone. If you notice a significant, sustained decrease in their usual activity, it's time to call. Don't try to explain it away (e.g., "maybe the baby is just sleepy"). A change from the norm is always worth investigating.

Red Flag 2: Not Reaching 10 Movements in 2 Hours

The "10 kicks in 2 hours" rule is a safety net. If you have been concentrating on counting and have not felt 10 movements within a two-hour period, you should call your provider immediately. Try having a cold drink or a small snack and lying on your left side to encourage movement, but if that doesn't work, make the call.

Red Flag 3: A Sudden, Frantic Increase in Movement Followed by Stillness

While less common, a sudden, violent, and uncharacteristic burst of activity followed by a period of no movement can be a sign of fetal distress (for example, from a cord accident). This is a serious red flag and requires an immediate call to your doctor or a trip to the hospital.

What to Expect When You Call

Your provider will likely ask you to come in for monitoring. They will probably perform a non-stress test (NST), where they monitor the baby's heart rate to ensure it is responding well. They may also perform an ultrasound. In most cases, everything turns out to be fine, but checking provides peace of mind and is the safest course of action.


Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

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