Day 136 of 280, second trimester
You are 19 weeks and 3 days
Feeling your baby kick? She's letting you know she's definitely in there, a wonderful milestone.
144 days until your due date
Around now, you're likely to feel that amazing first kick. Your baby has been moving since about week 6, but only now are her movements strong enough to feel clearly (although some women feel movements from 15–16 weeks). When you first feel it depends on your weight, your baby's position, where your placenta is, and whether it's your first pregnancy.
Whether it feels like bubbles, butterflies, a flipping goldfish, or a real kick, the first movement is likely to be an emotional moment. It's the first time your baby has communicated with you, even though she doesn't know she's doing it.
Once you've felt it, you may want her to do it again to be sure you didn't imagine it, but you may not feel another movement for a few days. Your partner may want to rest his hand on your belly when your baby is most active (usually when you're resting, so she isn't being rocked to sleep). It won't hurt your baby to play with her, so gently press on your abdomen when she kicks.
Good to know
Maternity swimwear
Swimming is fantastic exercise in pregnancy, but you may need new swimwear as your breasts and belly grow:
- Comfort and support: maternity swimsuits are reinforced with extra fabric for your belly, cut higher at the back, and have more support in the cups, made from stretchy fabric that grows with you. Maternity bikinis have generous cups and bottoms that sit neatly under your belly.
- Try a tankini, a two-piece with a tank-style top that shows a little belly without revealing too much.
- If you're self-conscious about your belly, wear a sarong, or go to women-only sessions at your local pool.
Appointments and key dates around now
- 20-week screening scanBetween 18 and 21 weeks
Read the full 19 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.