WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 18 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your body at 18 weeks
Welcome another week of your pregnancy journey!
Each week of pregnancy is a new adventure filled with excitement, surprises, and perhaps some exhaustion.
So fear not, we're here to keep you feeling positive and empowered!
Juliette Seblon
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Fatigue

Backache

Nasal congestion

Well, you will continue to feel the round ligament pain around and sprinkle in some back pain.
But perhaps now, you've been noticing dark patches on your nose, cheeks and forehead. 
And what about that line creeping up on your belly?
Feeling shortness of breath all of a sudden? Well, your feeling isn’t false!
How about some bumps and kicks?
No specific tests this week, but it's a good time to continue focusing on balanced nutrition.”
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
What's happening right now?
Understanding Discomfort: Backaches and Round Ligament Pain
As your uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, the supporting ligaments naturally stretch and thicken.
This can manifest as sharp, stabbing pains in the lower abdomen or groin area, known as round ligament pain.
Additionally, the extra weight and pressure of the uterus can strain your lower back, leading to aches. Rest assured, these discomforts are temporary and perfectly normal.
Hormonal Fluctuations and Skin Changes
Pregnancy hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, have a significant impact on your skin. You might notice a darkening of certain areas, often referred to as the "pregnancy mask" on your face. This hyperpigmentation typically fades after delivery.
Similarly, the linea nigra, a dark line running down your belly, is another harmless effect of increased melanin production.
Shortness of Breath: A Sign of Adaptation
During pregnancy, your body requires more oxygen to support both you and your developing baby. This can lead to a feeling of shortness of breath, especially as your uterus enlarges and puts pressure on your diaphragm.
While mild breathlessness is normal, consult your doctor if you experience difficulty breathing at rest.
The Thrill of Feeling Your Baby Move
As your baby grows stronger, you'll likely begin to feel their movements – kicks, jabs, or even subtle flutters.
This is a truly magical experience and a sign of your baby's healthy development.
However, the timing of these movements can vary from woman to woman.
Don't be concerned if you haven't felt them yet – every pregnancy progresses at its own pace.
Top asked questions
When should I start thinking about a birth plan?

It's a good idea to start thinking about your birth preferences now, and to discuss them with your doctor.

What are some safe exercises to do during pregnancy?

Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are safe for most women.

What are some common skin changes at 18w?

Darkening of the nipples and a linea nigra (a dark line on the belly) are common.

When should I start thinking about maternity clothes?

You may need to start shopping for maternity clothes soon if you haven't already.

What can I do to reduce swelling during pregnancy?

Drinking plenty of water, resting with your feet elevated, and wearing compression stockings can help.

Taking care of myself
Prioritizing Self-Care During Pregnancy
While prenatal care and healthy habits are crucial during pregnancy, prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being is equally important.
Here are some suggestions to incorporate self-care practices into your routine:
Embrace the Nesting Instinct:
Many pregnant women experience a natural urge to prepare for their baby's arrival.
Consider indulging in some light baby shopping.
Choosing cute clothes, toys, or nursery decor can spark excitement and a sense of accomplishment.
Explore Your Culinary Creativity:
Pregnancy is a time to experiment in the kitchen!
Try out new recipes you've been curious about.
Cooking can be a form of relaxation and a way to nourish your body with delicious and healthy options. Consider involving your partner, a friend, or family member to turn cooking into a fun social activity.
Move Your Body and Release Stress:
Dancing to your favorite music is a fantastic mood booster and stress reliever.
It gets your blood pumping, improves circulation, and can even be considered a fun form of exercise.
Bonding with Your Baby:
Take time to connect with your growing baby.
This can involve talking, singing, or reading to them.
Gently rubbing your belly, playing soothing music, or taking silly selfies can cultivate a special connection and make memories you'll cherish.
Schedule Time for Rejuvenation:
Plan a day trip or a fun outing to break away from routine.
Visiting a museum, exploring local shops, or enjoying a picnic outdoors are all excellent options. Spending quality time with loved ones can offer a welcome escape and provide emotional support.
Remember, self-care is not a luxury during pregnancy, but a necessity.
By incorporating these activities into your routine, you'll be taking care of both yourself and your developing baby.
Tips of the week
Research childbirth education classes
In case of psychological difficulties do not hesitate to talk about it
When working in a seated position, rotate your ankles to stimulate venous return
Teaser for next week
There will certainly be some surprises and some continued symptoms like your growing belly.
But a fun possibly new feeling is that "in the mood" feeling coming on.
Check it out next week to get some more details.
View Sources
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M
Mariana
10 Jan 2024

This was at 18w 2d I’ve seen other peoples ultrasound at 20-21 weeks and their baby wasn’t this big do you guys think he’s going to be a big baby ?? He’s 8oz half a pound the tech said #DoYouThinkhestobigfor18w

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
35 comments
🍹
🍹Jenni
Average baby's are around 6-8 Oz at 18 wks. You got a good size baby I wouldn't worry! Seems healthy to me! ❤️
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mariana
Thank you so much love ❤️ I’m like I hope he’s not to big to where I have to deliver earlier I’m due June 4
27 Mar 2024

Answer

V
Vanessa
8 Jan 2024

Is anyone else suffering with sleep currently 18w and wake up with anxious thoughts maybe 5 times a night 😩😩😩

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
5 comments
A
Amber
I’ve been having some very vivid dreams to the point I feel like I’m in an 80s slasher film. But I’ve been having issues sleeping too, I don’t recall doing this when I was pregnant with my first boy.
27 Mar 2024

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V
Vanessa
Thank you for replying it’s nice to know I’m not alone 🥹 are you finding yourself getting up multiple times a night ?
27 Mar 2024

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S
Savannah
15 Oct 2023

So we're 18w 2d.. have any of y'all felt pressure or a heaviness in ur vagina?? Maybe not all the time but it's definitely there. #pressure

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
3 comments
T
Tahtiana
Yes I have especially when I’m carrying something
27 Mar 2024

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Savannah
It's been over 10 yrs since I was last pregnant so I feel I forgot what happens lol
27 Mar 2024

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N
Nicole
23 Jul 2023

Is it weird that I’m 18w and my baby is still sitting low? Every time he kick I feel it in my lower abdomen like right before my vagina.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
5 comments
N
Nicole
I know my last appointment I was 15w and he was still low and she said it wasn’t nothing for concern, he was just down there chilling. It did make it harder for her to find the heartbeat so she had to bring the ultrasound machine out but I just figured he would be more up by now lol we’ll see when I go to my anatomy scan on the 31st.
27 Mar 2024

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D
Destiny
26 Jun 2023

Im 18weeks+4day & This Little One Is Soo Active Already 😭 Like Literally Feeling So Much Flutters. Anybody Else Feeling The Same At 18w?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
8 comments
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🦋Morgan🦋
At 18 weeks I felt the same 😊
27 Mar 2024

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D
Destiny
It Makes Me Realize Im Really Pregnant Again🤣💕
27 Mar 2024

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k
katelynn
8 Jun 2023

how far along we’re you when your belly button popped out? i’m almost 18w and my OB said my bellybutton looks like i’m already at 20w😟 it’s definitely close and i am not ready for that!!!

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
A
Amaris
Mines out I'm 18 weeks to, it popped at like 16 😂, this my 3rd baby
27 Mar 2024

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C
Caitlynne
This is my first baby and it popped out at 16 weeks and I’m 17 weeks now on vacation with a belly that looks like I’m well into my 20th week 😂
27 Mar 2024

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A
Allie
1 May 2023

Just curious if this is for sure girl parts? I can’t tell completely because I don’t see the three lines. This was our anatomy scan at 18w 4d.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
11 comments
A
Allie
See that’s why I’m confused because I don’t see the “hamburger shape” but I also thought it could just be swollen girl parts too.
27 Mar 2024

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Lexy🩵🩶
Yours is most def a girl.
27 Mar 2024

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Q
Qui qui 👼🏾💙🕊🌈👶🏾💙
1 Feb 2023

19weeks today made it pass 18w with no contractions 🙌🏾 God is good we almost there baby. At 22 weeks everything gone b new to me. Keep baking cnt wait to have u in my arms and bring u home 💙

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
J
Jasmine
God is good 🙏🏼
27 Mar 2024

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S
Shaina
9 Jan 2023

Baby boy is showing so much at 18w and 2days 🤩. I just had to take cute bump pics. Excited for what my maternity pics will look like in a couple of months.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
M
Miracle
This is at 18 weeks with my baby boy
27 Mar 2024

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H
Hannah
1 Aug 2022

According to my profile it'l says I'm 16 weeks pregnant. I am actually going to be 18w tomorrow ☺️ Anyways when did y'all start to feel baby kicks

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
3 comments
J
Jada
A lot Of People Said Around 18-22 Weeks, I’m 18 Weeks Too 🤣💕 & I Can’t Wait Either Lol
27 Mar 2024

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♥
♥️Maysons Momma♥️
I'm 17 weeks
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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