Back to Pregnancy Week by Week Guide
With 17 weeks pf pregnancy over, this is the time when you might experience a sudden increase in appetite. Go ahead and eat but never forget to keep eating healthy and nutritious.
Changes in Your Body at Week 18 Pregnancy
You should have gained anywhere between 2.5 – 5.8 kgs by this week. You should speak to your doctor if it is more than this range.
As you step into the 19th week of pregnancy soon your belly stretches, you might notice some stretch marks on your tummy. This might make you itch or might even give you some rashes. You could apply creams to reduce it. But do consult your doctor before you do so.
You might experience nose congestion during this period. This is because of the change in the circulation in your body. However do not use any nasal sprays or decongestants without seeking the doctor’s advice.
Your nipples will appear to be darker and also will tend to feel more tingly and sore.
You might notice a dark line from the middle of your abdomen. This is called the linea nigra.
Know what other changes your body will experience in our short guide to managing pregnancy. Download it for free today!
Your Baby’s Development at Week 18 Pregnancy
As the bones of the ears harden, the baby is able to perceive sounds even better. In fact, you will notice that the baby kicks each time there is a sudden loud sound. This is because that part of the brain that receives and sends nerve signals that develops during this time.
The nerves also get coated with a fatty layer or myelin. This enables them to pass messages to and from the brain to other parts of the body.
During this period, and till the next few weeks, the baby’s growth now slows down a bit.
At 18 weeks of pregnancy if you are having a girl then this is the week when the uterus and the Fallopian tubes develop and move into their correct position.
Week 18 Pregnancy Tips and Advice
Your waistline would have increased a few inches by now, so don’t try and fit into those old clothes anymore. Do buy yourself comfortable maternity clothing.
Your trips to the restroom might increase. So don’t forget to empty your bladder before you lie down for sleep at night.
It is possible for you to feel a little light headed at times at 18 weeks of pregnancy. To avoid this don’t stand or sit in one position for a long time. Also avoid moving too quickly.
You might experience heart burn and constipation during the next few weeks. Talk to your doctor to find ways to relieve your discomfort.
Week 18 Fun
At 18 weeks of pregnancy give in to a hobby. While dancing might not be a great option now, glass painting and sketching is.
Find out new recipes from friends and family which you have never tried before and give in to a little bit of cooking (make sure the ingredients that you are using are ‘pregnancy safe’ though).
Chocolate does contain caffeine, but a little doesn’t harm the child. Especially the dark variety one. So get your feet up and fit in that sinful dark chocolate without any guilt. In fact, studies have shown that dark chocolate helps to lower the risk of developing pre-eclampsia.
So did you get a bit of that dark chocolate? Felt good, right? Join our due date club here and share your thoughts with other mums-to-be.
Week 18 Pregnancy Articles – Coming Soon!!!
Week 18 Pregnancy Discussions
- Tooth ache during 18th week of pregnancy
- Will lack of sleep affect my baby’s growth?
- How can I reduce my severe back pain
- 18 weeks pregnant and worrying a lot
- Why do I feel like vomiting at night?
Week 18 Have a Laugh
When you have more than one kid this is what happens to your clothes:
- 1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as your doctor confirms your pregnancy.
- 2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible.
- 3rd baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.