FIVE X MORE x KICKS COUNT
Baby Movement Campaign
Five X More is excited to highlight this important campaign with Kicks Count.
Kicks Count is the UK’s leading baby movement campaign, keeping mums and babies safe. They aim to reduce the UK's high stillbirth and neonatal death rate by raising awareness of baby movements.
While there isn't one cause of stillbirth, a decrease in baby's movements can be a key warning sign that a baby is in distress and 50% of mothers who had a stillbirth noticed slowing down of baby's movements beforehand. Early delivery could save nearly a third of stillborn babies.
By raising awareness of baby's movements and encouraging mums to report any change in movement immediately it is estimated that a third of stillbirths could be prevented.
*** Kicks Count has generously offered the first 300 people that visit their website a free wristband. Kick Counts wristbands help to track your baby's movement episodes, making it easier for you to get to know what's normal - and what's not. Use code FIVEXMORE to get your free wristband today!***
For more information on Kicks Count please visit: https://www.kickscount.org.uk/ and to claim your free wristband please visit: https://kickscount.shop/ols/products/wristband
How often should my baby move?
All babies are different! There is no set number of normal movements.
From 16 – 24 weeks on you should feel your baby move more and more until 32 weeks. After 32 weeks, movements should stay roughly the same until you give birth.
It's important to get to know your baby's regular pattern of movement. Our Kicks Count Wristbands can help you do this.
What should I do if I notice reduced movement?
If you think your baby’s movements have slowed down or stopped, contact your maternity unit immediately. Midwives and doctors are there to help you - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
● Don't put off calling until the next day or wait until your next scheduled appointment.
● Don't worry about phoning, it's important for your doctors and midwives to know if your baby’s movements have slowed down or stopped. They'll be happy to hear from you.
Why are my baby’s movements important?
Your baby's movements are a sign of their wellbeing. A reduction or change in your baby’s movements can sometimes be a warning sign that they're unwell. More than half of women who experienced a stillbirth noticed a change in movements beforehand. It's important to know that:
● It's NOT true that babies move less towards the end of pregnancy
● Babies DO NOT run out of room
● You should continue to feel your baby move right up to the time you go into labour and whilst you are in labour too.
What can I expect when I report reduced movement?
The care you'll receive depends on how many weeks pregnant you are.
If you are worried about your baby's movements, it's important that you report your concerns to your midwife or maternity unit.
Here you can read more about what to expect when you report reduced baby movements.
Should I use a phone app or home doppler to check the baby's heartbeat?
Please don't use any device to check your baby's heartbeat, especially if you're concerned about their wellbeing.
Even if you think you're listening to their heartbeat, it's possible you're actually listening to your own.
The presence of a heartbeat alone does not mean your baby is well too- you both need to be checked by a healthcare professional if you're worried.
