When Can You Feel the Baby Move in Pregnancy?
Updated September 2025 · 5 min read
Most people first feel their baby move — a sensation called “quickening” — between about 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. First-time parents often notice it later (around 20–24 weeks), while those who’ve been pregnant before may feel it earlier. Early movements feel like flutters, bubbles or a rolling sensation. Once movements are established, tell your midwife straight away if they slow down or change — never wait.
- First movements (“quickening”) usually come around 16–24 weeks.
- First pregnancies often feel it later than subsequent ones.
- Early movements feel like flutters, bubbles or rolling — not always obvious at first.
- Once established, report ANY reduction or change in movements to your midwife immediately.
When the first movements come
The first flutters of your baby moving — known as quickening — are usually felt somewhere between 16 and 24 weeks. If it’s your first pregnancy, you’ll often notice it later, around 20–24 weeks, partly because you’re not yet sure what to feel for. If you’ve been pregnant before, you may recognise it earlier.
What it feels like
Early movements are gentle and easy to miss — people describe flutters, bubbles, a light tapping or a rolling, “tumbling” feeling, sometimes mistaken for wind or hunger. As your baby grows, the movements become stronger and more obvious — rolls, kicks and jabs — and you’ll start to notice patterns.
Movements build over time
From around 24–28 weeks, movements typically become more regular, and you’ll get to know your baby’s usual pattern — when they’re active and when they rest. There isn’t a set “normal” number of movements; what matters is your baby’s own pattern.
Important: reduced movements
Once you are feeling regular movements, a reduction or change in your baby’s movements can be an important warning sign. If you think your baby is moving less than usual, or their pattern changes, contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away — day or night. Do not wait until the next day or your next appointment, and don’t rely on home dopplers to reassure yourself. It is always okay to get checked.
Helping you notice movements
You’ll often feel your baby most when you’re sitting or lying quietly, after a meal, or in the evening. If you’re unsure whether movements have slowed, lie on your left side and focus for a while — but if there’s any doubt, call your care team rather than waiting.
Frequently asked questions
When do you first feel the baby move?
Usually between about 16 and 24 weeks. First-time parents often feel it later (around 20u201324 weeks), while those whou2019ve been pregnant before may notice it earlier.
What does the baby moving feel like at first?
Gentle flutters, bubbles, light tapping or a rolling sensation u2014 easy to miss early on, and sometimes mistaken for wind or hunger. Movements grow stronger over time.
What should I do if my baby is moving less?
Contact your midwife or maternity unit immediately u2014 day or night u2014 if your babyu2019s movements slow down or change once theyu2019re established. Reduced movement can be an important sign, so never wait to get checked.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy care is personal — always follow the guidance of your own midwife, obstetrician or GP, and contact them promptly about any symptoms or concerns. Guidance reflects widely published advice from bodies such as the NHS and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).