18 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect
How Far Along Are You at 18 Weeks Pregnant?
At 18 weeks pregnant, you are in the middle of your fifth and final trimester of pregnancy. That means you are 4 months, or 16 weeks, along in your pregnancy. Just 8 more weeks to go!
What's Happening at 18 Weeks Pregnant?
At 18 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing quickly and your body is changing. Your baby is now about 5.3 inches long and weighs almost 5 ounces. You can expect them to double their weight in the next few weeks. Your baby is forming eyelashes, eyebrows, and real hair now. They’re also beginning to gain fat that will help keep them warm once they’re born.
Your Baby's Development
Your baby's facial features are now fully formed and their eyes are beginning to open and close. They can hear sounds and voices and they can sense light. Your baby's lungs are growing and they are beginning to practice breathing. Their muscles are getting stronger and their reflexes are becoming more coordinated. They can now suck and swallow, and they may even be able to hear your voice.
Your Body's Development
At 18 weeks pregnant, your uterus is now the size of a grapefruit. You may begin to feel your baby move, which can be an amazing experience. You may also notice some Braxton Hicks contractions, which are the body’s way of preparing for labor. As your baby grows, your breasts may become larger and you may experience more back pain. Your baby bump may also start to show more prominently.
Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy at 18 Weeks
At 18 weeks pregnant, it's important to take care of yourself and your baby. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy:
- Eat healthy foods to keep your energy up.
- Get regular exercise to help keep your muscles strong.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
- Get plenty of rest to help your body heal and recover.
- Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.
What to Expect at Your 18-Week Checkup
At your 18-week checkup, your doctor will likely check your weight, blood pressure, and urine. They will also do an ultrasound to check on your baby's development. They may also do a fetal Doppler to check your baby's heartbeat. Depending on your doctor's recommendations, you may also have other tests, such as a glucose tolerance test or a blood test to check for any genetic disorders.
When to Call Your Doctor
It's important to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms at 18 weeks pregnant:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Headaches or visual disturbances
- Decreased fetal movement
- Leaking fluid from your vagina
Conclusion
At 18 weeks pregnant, you are in the middle of your fifth and final trimester. Your baby is growing quickly and your body is changing. It's important to take care of yourself and get plenty of rest. If you experience any symptoms or have any concerns, talk to your doctor.