18 Weeks Pregnant

You may be surprised by how quickly your bump is growing now. Your baby is developing extremely quickly now and starting to develop fat to survive on the outside world. Your baby is about the size of a banana pepper and has gained about two ounces since last week!

Your Baby’s Development

Your baby has grown to be bigger than the placenta by 18 weeks pregnant. While the placenta continues to grow, it is not at the same rapid rate as your little one. Your baby still has a way to go to be ready for life on the outside but he or she is getting there.

At Pregnancy week 18, you may have your second ultrasound. This is usually called the 20 week scan but happens anywhere between 18 and 22 weeks pregnant. This is the scan that will show any deformities, including any heart defects. You will be given the choice around this stage of an abortion if there are major deformities or disabilities; however, do what you feel is right and never be pressured into a decision either way. If you find that there is a problem, find out all the information you can, talk to your healthcare provider and your partner to be able to make an informed decision and something that you both support.

The 20 week scan is also the time that you can find out the sex of your baby. By 18 weeks pregnant, the genitals will have formed fully. You have the choice to find out the sex at the scan – this is something personal to you so talk to your partner and decide on the best option for the two of you. Do not be pressured by others. If you do decide to find out the sex, be prepared to hear that it is not possible. Babies are funny things and may decide to hide from the scan on the day.

Your baby’s bones will continue to harden. The only bone that will remain soft is the skull to allow for a natural delivery. This process is given the medical term ossification.

Changes in You at Pregnancy Week 18

Movement is likely from 18 weeks pregnant. Your baby will be doing plenty of somersaults and you may feel flutters on a regular basis. These movements can be mistaken for gas so do not be disheartened if you are not too sure. As you get further into your second trimester, the movement will feel much stronger and will develop into kicks and punches.

Symptoms at 18 Weeks Pregnant

Heartburn will still be causing a problem at pregnancy week 18. Keep eating little and often and avoid foods that are acidic. You can take many antacids that can be purchased over the counter if the heartburn becomes too difficult but make sure you read the label first.

It is likely that your pregnancy sickness has gone now so you will feel much hungrier. When you do snack, opt for healthier options. This will help to prevent putting on too much weight and make sure you and your baby get the nutrients that you both need. You will still not need to “eat for two” as your body will still be using up the calories effectively for the two of you.

Forgetfulness is extremely common at 18 weeks pregnant and is commonly referred to as pregnancy brain. There is a lot to think about and you may not be sleeping well. Write everything down such as appointments, work and birthdays. This will help you to keep going.

As a side note, my pregnancy brain affected my driving. I ended up driving north to go south because I just didn’t think about where I was going. It has been a standing joke with my partner on every journey that we now do in the car!