Week 18 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
Baby is
about the size of a sweet potato
5.5 inches · 5.3 oz
Baby this week
- •Ears are now in their final position on the sides of the head
- •Baby can hear sounds, including your voice and heartbeat
- •Vernix caseosa (protective white coating) is beginning to form on skin
- •Nervous system is developing myelin, which helps transmit signals
You this week
- •Round ligament pain as uterus expands (sharp twinges in lower belly or groin)
- •Increased energy as second trimester progresses
- •Nasal congestion and possible nosebleeds from increased blood volume
- •Visible linea nigra (dark line running down the belly)
- •Occasional dizziness, especially when standing quickly
This week's tips
- •Schedule your anatomy scan if you haven't already—this mid-pregnancy ultrasound is one of the most important appointments
- •Stay hydrated and eat iron-rich foods to support your increased blood volume
- •Wear supportive, flat shoes to ease any lower back discomfort
- •Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to prepare for labor and prevent incontinence
- •Talk to your baby—they can hear you now, and it strengthens bonding
Looking ahead
Your anatomy scan is likely coming up soon, where you'll get a detailed look at baby's development and confirm due dates. Many parents find this scan incredibly meaningful—you might even learn baby's sex if you want to know. Over the next few weeks, you may start feeling those first flutters of movement as baby becomes more active.
Get next week's update delivered
We'll send you week 19's update — baby development, tips, and baby-friendly places to discover. Free, unsubscribe anytime.
More free tools
Looking for places to bring baby?
Explore BringBaby