You should typically feel your baby's first movements, known as quickening, between weeks 16 and 25 of pregnancy.

Factors Affecting Timing

First-time pregnancies often delay detection until 20-25 weeks, while subsequent pregnancies may feel flutters as early as 13-16 weeks due to familiarity with sensations. Movements are easier to notice when resting quietly, lying down, or after eating, and they start as gentle flutters before becoming stronger kicks by 24-28 weeks.

Monitoring Patterns

By the third trimester (around 28 weeks), expect frequent activity—up to 30 movements per hour—with at least 10 in two hours considered normal. Track your baby's unique pattern daily; consult a healthcare provider if movements decrease, change suddenly, or haven't started by 25 weeks.