Girl… I Swear I Felt a Popcorn Kernel in My Belly Last Night (Was That a Kick?)
It was 9:42 p.m., and I was lying on the couch, half-watching TV, half-rubbing my belly like I always do now. Suddenly—bloop.
This tiny flutter, like a popcorn kernel just popped inside me.
Was it gas? Was it a twitch?
Or… could it actually be the moment I’ve been waiting for—did I finally feel my baby kick?
Welcome to Week 16, the stage where you start questioning every little movement in your belly and wondering, “Was that it?”
And honestly? It just might be.
This is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy—those first signs of your baby wiggling, stretching, and saying a quiet little hello.
Let’s talk about when you’ll start to feel your baby kick, what it really feels like, and how to know for sure. 💛
1️⃣ First Things First: What Does a Baby Kick Actually Feel Like?
Everyone describes it differently, but here are the most common ways mamas explain those early flutters:
- “Like bubbles popping.”
- “Like a goldfish swimming inside.”
- “Like gentle tapping or a muscle twitch.”
- “Like little butterflies in my belly.”
At this stage, it doesn’t feel like a big thud or jab—that comes later. Early movements are subtle, light, and often confused with gas or digestion at first (because yes, those feel surprisingly similar 😅).
2️⃣ When Do Most People Feel the First Kicks?
Here’s what’s typical:
🍼 First-time moms
Usually around 18–22 weeks. Sometimes as early as 16 weeks (you’re here now!), but often it takes a few more weeks to notice and recognize the feeling.
🤰 Second-time moms (or more)
Often earlier—around 16–18 weeks—because you know what it feels like and are more tuned in.
📌 Remember: Every pregnancy is different. If you haven’t felt anything yet, don’t panic. It’s normal!
3️⃣ Why You Might Not Feel Baby Yet
There are a few very normal reasons you might not feel those flutters quite yet:
🛏️ You’re Busy!
Sometimes, we miss early movements because we’re simply distracted. You’re more likely to notice baby kicks when you’re resting or lying still.
💓 Placenta Placement
If you have an anterior placenta (meaning it’s attached at the front of your uterus), it can cushion baby’s kicks and make them harder to feel early on. Totally normal—and your OB will usually mention this after your anatomy scan.
🩺 It’s Your First Pregnancy
First-time moms often don’t feel kicks until a little later, simply because they’re learning to tell the difference between baby and digestion.
4️⃣ Where in Your Belly Will You Feel It?
Early kicks are usually felt:
✔️ Low in your abdomen (like, just above your pubic bone)
✔️ On one side or in the center
✔️ Sometimes near your hips
As your uterus grows and baby gets stronger, you’ll start feeling movement higher and more regularly. But for now, it’s all happening in that lower belly zone.
5️⃣ How to Encourage Baby to Move (And Notice It)
If you’re eager to feel baby kick (aren’t we all?!), here are a few tricks that can help you tune in:
💧 Drink something cold
Some moms say sipping ice water or a cold smoothie gets baby moving.
🍬 Try a little juice
The natural sugars in juice might perk baby up (just keep it healthy and in moderation).
🧘♀️ Lie down and be still
Baby’s movements are easier to feel when you’re calm, relaxed, and lying on your side.
🖐️ Put your hand on your belly
Even if you can’t feel it on the outside yet, touching your belly can help you become more aware of what’s happening inside.
6️⃣ When Will Kicks Become More Regular?
Right now, movements are random and irregular. You might feel something one day, then nothing for a few days—and that’s okay.
Around Week 24, your baby’s kicks will start to become stronger and more consistent, and by Week 28, your doctor may ask you to start counting kicks as part of your daily routine.
But for now? Just enjoy the surprise moments.
7️⃣ When Can My Partner Feel the Baby?
This is such a sweet moment 💛
Most partners can start feeling kicks from the outside between Weeks 20–24 (especially during quiet moments when baby’s active).
It’s the perfect time to lie down together, put their hand on your belly, and play a little “was that it?” game.
📌 Pro tip: Try this in the evening when baby is usually more active and you’re relaxed.
8️⃣ When to Call Your Doctor
At this stage, it’s still early. But if you’ve passed Week 22 and haven’t felt any movement at all—or if you’re worried—trust your instincts and give your provider a call.
After Week 28, a sudden decrease in movement is something to check in about. But for now, irregular movement is normal.
9️⃣ Real Talk From Other Moms
“I thought it was just gas for the longest time—then one day it happened twice in a row, and I knew it was my baby.” – Marisol
“I didn’t feel anything until Week 20, and then BAM—flutters, kicks, everything. So worth the wait.” – Candace
“It started as little ‘pops’ in my lower belly during movie night. Best feeling in the world.” – Amina
10️⃣ Your Baby at Week 16: What’s Going On In There?
Your little one is about 4.5 inches long—about the size of an avocado 🥑—and is growing quickly!
✔️ Their limbs are lengthening
✔️ Facial muscles are developing, so they’re making cute expressions
✔️ Tiny toenails are starting to grow
✔️ And yes—they’re already moving, flipping, and even sucking their thumb
You may not feel every move just yet, but it’s all happening in there. Baby’s practicing for the big debut. 💛
Final Thoughts: The First Kick is Worth the Wait
Feeling your baby kick for the first time is one of those “pinch me” moments in pregnancy. It makes everything suddenly feel so real—like your baby is saying,
“Hey mama. I’m here.”
Whether you’ve already felt something or are still waiting, just know:
💛 You’re right on track
💛 Your baby is growing beautifully
💛 That first undeniable flutter is coming soon—and it’s going to melt your heart
So take a deep breath, rest that hand on your belly, and know that the best part of pregnancy is just beginning.
