You’ll usually start to feel your baby kick (the first movements are called quickening) sometime in the mid‑second trimester, most often between about 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.

Typical timeline

  • Many first‑time pregnancies: baby’s first noticeable movements around 18–22 weeks.
  • Some people (especially in later pregnancies) may notice flutters as early as 13–16 weeks.
  • It’s also normal not to be sure at first whether it’s gas, bubbles, or baby, especially with your first pregnancy.

What it feels like

  • Early movements: light flutters, bubbles, gentle taps, or a rolling sensation low in the belly.
  • As weeks go by: clearer kicks, jabs, stretches, and even hiccup‑like rhythmic twitches.
  • By the third trimester, movements are strong and frequent, sometimes enough to make you pause or catch your breath.

Why the timing varies

  • First vs later pregnancies: people who’ve been pregnant before often recognize movements earlier.
  • Placenta position: an anterior (front‑wall) placenta can “cushion” kicks so you feel them later or more softly.
  • Body size and baby’s position: can change how obvious the movements feel from the outside.

When others can feel kicks

  • A partner or friend placing a hand on your belly may feel movements from around 20 weeks onward, as baby and kicks get stronger.

When to call your doctor

  • If you are past about 24–26 weeks and feel no movement at all, or
  • If you notice a clear, lasting decrease or a sudden change in your baby’s usual pattern of movements at any stage after movements have been regular,
    then contact your maternity provider or triage right away for advice and a check.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.