Fetal movement at 28 weeks

How this stage is different

At 28 weeks, the third trimester begins. In the first trimester, your baby moves but you cannot usually feel it. In the second trimester, faint flutters become more noticeable. Around 28 weeks, kicks, rolls, and stretches often make a daily pattern easier to recognize.

Movement generally increases until about 32 weeks, then stays at a similar frequency, though the sensations change. A baby should not move less simply because the due date is close.

If your OB recommends counting

One commonly used approach is to sit quietly or lie on your side when your baby is usually active and record how long it takes to feel 10 distinct movements. Count kicks, rolls, and stretches. Many babies reach 10 much sooner than two hours. Follow your OB's specific instructions about when and how often to count. Columbia OB movement counseling

If you have not felt 10 movements within two hours under this plan, go to Labor & Delivery for assessment. If movement is clearly reduced or absent, go to Labor & Delivery immediately instead of waiting to complete a count. Reaching a number does not cancel out a meaningful change in your baby's usual pattern.

Do not delay care while repeatedly trying juice, cold drinks, or a home heartbeat monitor. If the pattern changes again after a reassuring assessment, return for another assessment.