During the 18th week of pregnancy, your baby has unique fingerprints on the fingertips that they have on their toes and hands. This just means that they have received their unique identity, which will stay with them forever.
Another thing that they will be getting at this point is Myelin, protective insulation for the nerves. This one starts to form around the nerves that are developing in your baby.
The wait is over! The fallopian tubes and uterus are currently in a proper position right now, and if it is a boy, the genitals are there too. You can know the gender of your baby at this point!
How Many Months Are 18 Weeks Pregnant?
If you are 18 weeks pregnant, this means that you are 5 months into your pregnancy. There are only 4 months left, so you want to make sure that you are doing everything right and are eating good foods, and are exercising for your adorable little one.
Here Are Some Of The Most Common Symptoms That You Will be Getting At Week 18
- Fetal Movement
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea
- Leg Cramps
- Cramps In Thigh
- Bleeding Gums
- Swelling In Feet
- Swelling In Ankles
- Stretch Marks
Changes You Will Notice In Your Body
At this point, the belly that you have is growing at a very fast rate. This means that during the second trimester, you should be gaining 3 to 4 pounds per month for a healthy weight gain for you and your baby. If you gain a pound or more this week, it is normal, and does not freak about it.
Another thing that you will be noticing is the fact that your adorable baby is increasing to become more active. The gas bubbles or the butterflies that you will be feeling in your stomach can become the first movements of your baby.
Kicks are not noticeable at this point because the baby is still small right now.
How Big Is Your Baby?
Your baby is not yet that big right now. They are about 5.5 inches long and only weigh around 7 ounces heavy. However, this week is such a good one for your baby.
During the 18th week, the senses of your baby start to develop. Their ears develop and will pop out from their head. This means that they will begin to hear your voice. The baby will also be capable of detecting light.
When To See Or Call A Doctor?
If you have or go through the things that are mentioned below, you want to call the doctor right away or visit an emergency room:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Vaginal discharge with bad odor
- Fever
- Chills
- Extreme pain when urinating
- Blood in urine
- Pelvic cramping
- Lower abdominal pain
If you are gaining a lot of weight at a very fast time, you should also call your doctor and inform them about this.
Gaining a lot of weight is an early sign of preeclampsia, which is a serious pregnancy complication that needs fast medical treatment.
