Welcome to our week-by-week pregnancy guide! This resource is designed to help you navigate the journey of pregnancy, covering everything from symptoms and fetal development to your changing body and upcoming appointments. Here’s what you can expect at week 18.
Your Body at 18 Weeks Pregnant
Discomfort and Dizziness
Even though you might be in what many call the “honeymoon” phase of pregnancy, you could still be facing some significant discomfort. As your joints and ligaments loosen to accommodate your growing baby, you may experience aches in your lower back and hips. Consider using a belly support band during the day and a pregnancy body pillow at night to alleviate some of this discomfort. Sleep on your left side for optimal circulation.
With your blood volume having doubled, your heart is working hard, which can lead to low blood pressure and symptoms like dizziness. Always stand up slowly from lying or sitting positions, and stay hydrated to combat these feelings.
Your Baby at 18 Weeks Pregnant
Growing and Developing
Your little one is about 6 inches long and weighs between 6.5 to 7 ounces—roughly the size of an ice cream sandwich! Your baby now has unique fingerprints, can blink, and can hear you. They’re also busy performing acrobatics inside your womb, and you might start feeling those initial movements known as the quickening. If you haven’t felt anything yet, don’t worry; it will happen soon.
In addition to their impressive gymnastics, your baby is developing eyebrows and eyelashes, yawning and hiccupping, and growing nails on their tiny fingers and toes. A protective layer called myelin is forming around their nerves, and if you’re having a boy, the ultrasound may reveal his genitals at your next appointment. For a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are settling into their permanent place.
Symptoms and Health at 18 Weeks Pregnant
Varicose Veins
Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can lead to varicose veins for some women, typically appearing in the legs, buttocks, and vaginal area. Elevating your feet, wearing compression stockings, staying hydrated, and remaining active can help improve circulation.
Heartburn
Heartburn often strikes during the second and third trimesters as hormones like progesterone slow digestion and relax esophageal muscles. To minimize discomfort, steer clear of spicy or greasy foods, eat smaller meals throughout the day, avoid lying down after eating, and consider raising your head while sleeping.
Breast Changes
As you enter the second trimester, you might notice your breasts becoming larger and fuller. They are preparing for milk production and could increase by one to one and a half cup sizes by the time of delivery.
Headaches
Some women experience headaches due to increased blood volume, dehydration, posture, caffeine withdrawal, or blood flow changes. If headaches persist, consult your OB before taking any medication. Be vigilant for severe headaches, especially in the third trimester, as they may be linked to high blood pressure and preeclampsia.
Vaginal Discharge
A rise in vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy. Normal discharge is milky and odorless. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice yellow or green discharge with a strong odor, especially if accompanied by itching.
Pelvic Pain
Pelvic and lower back pain affects many women during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages. While complete relief may be difficult to achieve, consider using a pregnancy sling or band for some support.
If you haven’t yet felt your baby’s movements, don’t fret! Each pregnancy is unique and you will soon feel those little kicks. This week may bring additional discomfort as your body adjusts to accommodate your growing little one. You might also notice stretch marks developing and your skin becoming itchy; keeping it moisturized with shea butter and staying hydrated can help.
For those looking for ways to boost fertility, check out our other blog post on fertility supplements here. If you’re seeking maternity workout clothes, visit this resource for some great options. Additionally, for further guidance on pregnancy and home insemination, you can find valuable information at Mount Sinai.
Summary
At 18 weeks pregnant, you’re entering a pivotal stage in your pregnancy. Your baby is growing rapidly, now roughly the size of an ice cream sandwich, and your body is undergoing significant changes. While you may experience various discomforts and symptoms, remember that these are all part of the journey. Stay informed and connected to resources that can support you during this time.