At what point should a pregnant woman start fetal kick counts?

Fetal kick counts are typically recommended to start around 28 weeks of gestation. At this point, the fetus is sufficiently developed and active, allowing the mother to perceive movements consistently. Monitoring fetal activity provides important information about the baby’s well-being, as a decrease in movement can be an early sign of fetal distress, prompting further evaluation.

Beginning fetal kick counts at 28 weeks enables the mother to establish a pattern of her baby's movements and recognize any significant changes. This timeframe is crucial as it closely aligns with the third trimester, when fetal movements become more pronounced and regular. Prior to this, while fetal movements do occur, they may not be as consistently felt, which may not provide an accurate assessment of fetal health or behavior.