Is that baby love, gas, or some combo of both? Let’s unpack it.

You’re lying in bed, halfway through your second trimester, binge-watching reality TV and spooning peanut butter straight from the jar when it happens — a little flutter. A twitch? A pop? A tiny high-five from the inside?

Or was it just gas? Again.

Welcome to the world of second-trimester baby kicks — also known as the ultimate internal guessing game. If you’ve been sitting around wondering whether that rumble in your belly is indigestion or your baby doing TikTok dances in the womb, congratulations. You’re officially in the thick of it, and babe, it’s weird, wild, and 100% wonderful.

It’s not just gas anymore. The kid’s got moves.

Let’s Talk Baby Movement: What’s Actually Going On

Somewhere around weeks 16 to 22, most pregnant people start feeling the very first movements of their baby — known as “quickening.” And no, it’s not a Marvel origin story (though it should be). It’s the moment your tiny human starts making themselves known, one subtle bop at a time.

Early on, it might feel like:

• A flutter (like butterfly wings doing jazz hands)
• A bubble (was that baby or that third croissant?)
• A flick (from the inside... hi?)
• A tiny thump (adorable and mildly alarming)

If it feels suspiciously like the aftermath of that spicy ramen you swore you’d never eat again — you’re not alone. Early baby kicks and gas can feel eerily similar. But over time, those kicks become more distinct, more rhythmic, and way more confidence-boosting.

First it’s flutters. Then it’s full-on womb aerobics. g>

When Will I Feel It For Sure?

Timing varies depending on a few factors:

• First pregnancy? You might feel movement closer to week 20–22.
• Second (or third) rodeo? You’ll likely pick it up earlier — your body’s done this gig before.
• Anterior placenta? Translation: your placenta is at the front, so it’s harder to feel those gentle internal jazz routines at first. Totally normal.

But once you know, YOU KNOW. And from there, it’s a whole new world of bonding, daydreaming, and trying to explain to your partner what it feels like when someone drop-kicks your bladder from inside.

It starts with “Was that...?” and ends with “OMG, my baby is doing Zumba again.”

Let’s Be Real: It’s Cute, But Also Kinda Weird

Feeling baby kicks is beautiful, yes. But also? Mildly creepy. There’s a tiny person inside you practicing their ninja moves, and that’s a lot to emotionally process. Especially when they start a full-on dance party during your Zoom meeting or 2am pee break.

Weird, but wonderful:

• Kick to the cervix? Not ideal. Very specific. 1/10, do not recommend.
• Foot in the ribs during a snack break? Rude.
• Belly visibly moves? Okay, that’s straight-up alien realness.

But every kick, roll, and jab is a reminder: they’re growing. They’re thriving. They’re making themselves known. And it’s your body making literal life while you also Google “can I still eat sushi if it’s cooked?

”

You’re not just feeling kicks — you’re feeling a whole new connection forming.

Tracking the Movement (Without Losing the Plot)

Eventually, your healthcare provider may have you start counting kicks — usually in the third trimester. But for now? Enjoy the surprise factor. Feel free to gently poke back (yes, you can), talk to your belly, or sing like you’re headlining Mumchella.

And yes — if you’re feeling less movement than expected and worried? Call your provider. Always. No shame. No silly questions. Just you being an intuitive badass.

Pro Tip: Keep track of your kicks and snack breaks. Some babies love to do their own snack-fueled cardio routine right after you eat (especially after something sweet — they are your child, after all).

The more you eat chocolate, the more your baby moonwalks. It’s science. Probably.

Dressing for the Kick Show

Now that your baby is doing the Macarena inside your belly, comfort becomes non-negotiable. Your usual jeans? Fired. That band tee from 2012? Maybe, but let’s stretch it out a bit. It’s time to slide into something that’s bump-friendly, stretch-

savvy, and makes you feel like the goddess you are.

May we suggest Emamaco’s maternity leggings? Built for movement (yours and baby’s), they’re soft, breathable, and gently hug the bump while giving your uterus the stage it deserves. Bonus: zero digging, bunching, or sliding — just pure buttery bliss with a side of style.

Dress for the kicks you want. Or at least for the kicks you didn’t see coming.

Final Thoughts: From Gas to Glory

The second trimester is full of wild, weird, wonderful moments — and that first confirmed baby kick is pure magic. Whether it feels like bubbles, popcorn, or a tiny rave, it's one of those milestones that hits you in the feels (and sometimes the bladder).

So embrace it. Laugh when it feels like gas. Cry when it feels like a miracle. You’re building something extraordinary inside of you — and they’ve just started saying hi.

So whether you’re mid-snack, mid-stretch, or mid-nap when the kicks begin — celebrate it, queen.
Because whether it’s love, gas, or both? It’s all part of the magic.

Xoxo,
The Emamaco Team