Baby Growth Milestones at Pregnancy Week 18
At pregnancy week 18, a protective covering known as Myelin is beginning to form around your baby’s nerves and will continue filling up until his first birthday.
Your little one is about 22 cm long, weighs about 220 grams, and is now the size of a medium sweet potato. He has increased activity in the uterus and spends a lot of time tumbling, kicking and rolling. He can also cross his legs, somersault and even suck at his thumb although these movements are not yet coordinated. To you, these movements no longer feel fluttery but fully distinct fetal kicks.
At the end of this week you should have the anomaly ultrasound scan which the doctor will use to make sure that the baby’s organs are all growing as they should be. He will also check the placenta, umbilical cord, and screen for certain birth defects. If possible make arrangements so that your partner can come along for this visit. You may be able to see the baby moving around plus it’s a bonding moment for the three of you.
Related: Body Changes and Baby Milestones to Expect at Pregnancy Week 17
Your Changing Body Symptoms at Pregnant Week 18
At 18 weeks pregnant, your skin is probably starting to feel itchy around the belly as well as the breasts. Regularly rub the skin around those areas with a rich pregnancy-safe moisturizer to ease the itching. You may also have started to experience occasional lower abdominal pain that’s usually mild but can feel like a jab.. This is known as round ligament pain and is normal at this stage of pregnancy.
You are getting increasingly exhausted and you may be finding it hard to get through the day without taking a nap. Plan your day to allow you a little snooze even if it’s just a few minutes during the lunch hour. Enough rest contributes to a healthy pregnancy.
Since your baby can now hear sounds, remember to talk to them regularly at this stage.
Pregnancy week 18 tip: You are starting to have problems finding a comfortable sitting position and the backaches may now be constant. Now is the ideal time to think about supportive maternity clothing. A supportive girdle which you can find at any baby shop will go a long way in easing the backaches and giving you a proper posture. You don’t need to be embarrassed about it because they are worn underneath your clothing.
Next Week: Body Changes and Baby Growth Milestones at Pregnancy Week 19
Get Personalized Maternity Care at Malaica Maternity Hospital
As you attend the antenatal clinic for your anomaly scan, you need a maternity care team that’s dedicated to your well being beyond clinical assessments. Malaica maternity hospital provides personalized and all-rounded care with multiple layers of support, including an online community of pregnant women, virtual psychologist, and 24/7 access to a nurse midwife.
Curious how we can empower your pregnancy journey? Call or send us a message at +254 746 610643. You can also request us to call you back by filling out and submitting our online form.