Kick, gas, or internal acrobatics? Let’s decode your bump’s secret language.
Alright mama, let’s talk flutters, bubbles, and belly twitches. You’re in your second trimester now—which means you’ve likely graduated from the “I feel like death” phase to the “Am I glowing or just covered in highlighter?” stage. And somewhere between stalking prams on Instagram and Googling “can I still eat sushi if I really really want to?” comes a magical milestone: feeling the baby move.
Except… what if it’s just gas? What if that adorable flutter is actually a rogue burrito making its dramatic exit? Or worse, what if you miss the first real kick because you were too busy focusing on your third Tim Tam?
Don’t worry babe—we’re here to decode the mysterious signals coming from your womb like you’re the main character in a saucy rom-com-meets-sci-fi flick. Grab your snacks and your belly oil. It’s time to figure out who’s doing the cha-cha in your uterus.
“Pregnancy: where a fart and a foot can feel alarmingly similar.”
What does a baby kick actually feel like?
At first, it’s subtle. Like a bubble popping. A soft flutter. A teeny tiny fish flick. Not exactly the full karate-chop-to-the-ribs situation that’s coming later (trust us).
These early movements are usually felt between 16 to 22 weeks—and if it’s your first rodeo, it might take a little longer to confidently say, “Yep, that was baby and not lunch.”
Common baby movement feels:
- Butterfly wings brushing inside your belly
- Popcorn popping somewhere near your pelvis
- A soft thump like someone poking you from the inside
- A gentle roll—as if baby’s turning over in a tiny waterbed
And gas? That usually comes with some gurgles, pressure, or ac
How do I tell the difference between gas and baby kicks?
Excellent question, detective. The key is consistency. If you feel a little pop in the same area more than once—and especially if it happens around the same time of day (like after a snack or when you’re lying down)—that’s your mini-me saying hey.
Also, baby kicks don’t usually come with audible tummy rumbles or, let’s be real, toots. If there’s a sound effect… probably gas. If there’s a feeling of wonder and mild confusion? Probably baby.
“Was that my baby saying hi... or did I just need to burp?”
When do kicks become more obvious?
As your baby grows (hello, avocado-to-cantaloupe transformation), their moves get stronger. By 24 weeks, you might start seeing your belly jiggle with each kick like it’s got its own pulse. Wild, we know.
By the third trimester? It’s full-on nightclub mode in there. Baby is stretching, turning, even hiccuping like they own the place. But right now, during this cozy second trimester phase, it’s all sweet flutters and tiny taps—like love notes sent directly to your uterus.
Best positions to feel the kicks
If you’re still waiting on that first undeniable baby kick, try lying down on your left side with a hand on your belly. It’s often easier to feel movement when you’re calm, still, and not distracted by Real Housewives drama or a midweek pasta coma.
Other kick-enhancing hacks:
- Drink something cold—babies are dramatic and notice the temp change
- Eat something sugary—because your baby is you, and sugar = motivation
- Play music near your belly—yes, even Beyoncé
- Talk to your bump—babies love a monologue
Still not sure what you’re feeling? Keep a little movement journal. Jot down times, sensations, what you were doing—and soon enough, a pattern will emerge. Spoiler: it’s adorable AF.
Let’s talk about Emamaco (because comfort matters)
Whether you’re lying in bed waiting to feel that magical flutter or doing a full belly-rub ritual after every snack, you want to be comfortable. Enter: Emamaco maternity leggings and shorts. These miracle garments cradle your bump, support your back, and honestly make you feel like a luxe marshmallow in the best possible way.
They’re perfect for lounging, walking, prenatal yoga, or just vibing on the couch waiting for your little kickboxer to say hi. Bonus? They look cute. Like, actually cute. No sad beige sack vibes here.
When to call your doctor
Quick disclaimer, glam squad: if you’re ever worried about lack of movement (especially later in pregnancy), don’t hesitate to call your midwife or OB. They are literally there to help. Trust your gut—and not just when it’s gassy.
Early on, mov
“Counting kicks: the weirdest, most wonderful bonding activity ever.”
The best part? It’s just the beginning
This phase—this magical, strange, and slightly awkward phase—where you’re trying to figure out what’s a kick and what’s just digestion drama? It’s the start of something epic.
You’re connecting. You’re tuning in. You’re learning your baby’s language. And soon enough, there’ll be little feet pushing against your ribs, hiccups bouncing in your belly, and the kind of movement that makes your whole stomach do the wave.
But for now? Enjoy the mystery. Feel the flutters. And keep asking “was that it?”—because that moment when you know is coming. And it’s unforgettable.
✨ Ready to feel every kick in absolute comfort? Discover the Emamaco maternity range—because your bump deserves the softest, sassiest hug ever.
Stay chill, trust the bubbles, and embrace the kicks—gas or not 💅
—The Emamaco Kickback Crew