87: Count the Kicks: The Importance of Fetal Kick Counts With Megan Aucutt

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne welcome Megan Aucutt, Program Director of Healthy Birthday, Inc. and creator of Count the Kicks, to discuss the critical role of fetal kick counts in reducing preventable stillbirths. Megan explains why starting kick counts at 28 weeks is essential, debunks common myths about fetal movements, and highlights the benefits of using the free Count the Kicks app for tracking movements. The conversation also covers how kick counts can alleviate anxiety, aid in bonding with the baby, and why it's crucial to trust maternal instincts and seek medical advice when in doubt about fetal movements. About Megan: Megan Aucutt is the Program Director with Healthy Birth Day, Inc. – the non-profit that created the evidence-based Count the Kicks stillbirth prevention program. Megan is a University of Northern Iowa graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and an emphasis in Global Health. She has over 15 years of experience with nonprofits and governmental work, focusing on grant writing and reviewing, coalition building, and educational program development. Her true passion is maternal and child health. As Program Director, Megan oversees the organization’s research and programmatic outreach. She also manages the free Count the Kicks app and works closely with the medical community on system and policy changes. Megan believes that knowledge truly is power. She used the Count the Kicks App during her pregnancies and has three healthy and rambunctious children. She is proud to be part of such an important organization with a powerful mission of saving babies. Check out Megan’s website and download the Count the Kicks app here: https://countthekicks.org/download-app/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwj4K5BhDYARIsAD1Ly2pw91pSUfkimNiUTvMHHqA8JOwaY_WPfH_g_X6QNmI_HgfRdcp2xAcaAsSfEALw_wcB Find Megan on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/countthekicksus/?hl=en Learn More About the CDC’s Hear Her Campaign here: https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/index.html 00:00 Introduction to MamasteFit Podcast 01:20 Meet Megan Aucutt from Count the Kicks 01:51 Understanding Fetal Kick Counts 03:47 Using the Count the Kicks App 06:34 Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions 09:11 The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts 10:52 Preventing Stillbirths: A Medical Perspective 17:15 The Role of Medical Providers 24:58 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts 32:18 Conclusion and Resources ===== Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH —— This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ****Freebies***** Early postpartum recovery course:  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/  Pp sample  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/ Prenatal Sample:  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/ Pelvic Floor  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/ Birth Prep for Labor Guide  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/ Birth Partner Guide  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/ Birth Plan  https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/