Baby kicks don't always hurt, but they certainly can.
According to Dr. Keller, it's normal for a mother to sometimes experience pain from baby movements, especially when the baby presses a foot or arm against the ribs or abdomen (Does It Hurt When Your Baby Moves?).
Here’s a breakdown of why some baby kicks can be painful:
Why Baby Kicks Might Hurt
- Position: If the baby is positioned in a way that their limbs are pressing against sensitive areas like your ribs, bladder, or abdomen, it can cause discomfort or pain.
- Strength: As the baby grows stronger, their kicks become more forceful.
- Location: Some areas are simply more sensitive. Kicks to the ribs, for instance, are often reported as painful.
When to be Concerned
While some discomfort is normal, severe or persistent pain should be discussed with your doctor.