Week 18 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a bell pepper
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 from outside the womb, including your voice
- •Vernix caseosa (protective waxy coating) is beginning to develop on baby's skin
- •Myelin is forming around nerves, which helps with nerve signal transmission
- •Baby's movements are becoming more coordinated and purposeful
You this week
- •Quickening or butterfly-like movements as baby gets stronger
- •Round ligament pain or sharp twinges on sides of abdomen
- •Continued appetite changes or food cravings
- •Occasional dizziness or lightheadedness
- •Possible skin changes like darkening (linea nigra) or pregnancy mask
- •Back pain as your center of gravity shifts
This week's tips
- •Start noting when you feel baby move—patterns become more noticeable soon
- •Practice good posture and consider a pregnancy pillow to ease back pain
- •Stay hydrated and eat iron-rich foods to prevent anemia
- •If you haven't scheduled your anatomy scan yet, do so now (typically 18-22 weeks)
- •Wear sunscreen if you're concerned about skin darkening
- •Invest in a supportive, well-fitting bra as breasts continue to grow
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Your anatomy ultrasound is likely just around the corner—this is an exciting chance to get a detailed look at baby's development and confirm everything is progressing well. Many parents say this scan makes pregnancy feel more real.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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