Pregnancy Calendar at Week 18
Hey there, cutie!
We’ve been lucky enough to have you for 18 weeks now, and I’m truly a proud mama! 🥺 I already have around 240 grams of fluff, and you’re growing about 22 centimeters. Just imagine, what kind of long little one I’ve got!
My little caterpillar is now fully grown—bushing out, getting fuzzier, and sprouting new whiskers and tiny little frostings. And the most amazing part—those tiny nerve cells keep forming a protective blanket so signals from her brain can reach her body even faster. This process will keep going even after she’s born. Just think of it as how we grow together over time.
My bangs and little legs are getting stronger, her hips are more proportional, and even her tiny toes are almost perfectly shaped! I’ll have unique little prints left by her, just like my fingerprints—so no one will ever confuse me. 🥰
And now, I actually have my own little routine. I sleep well and wake up refreshed every few hours. Sometimes, we bump into each other unexpectedly, and other times—I doze off again, and you want to remind me: ‘Hey, I’m here, close by, with you!’
Thank you for caring so much about me, little mama. I can feel your heartbeat, and that’s my favorite sound ever. 💗
I’ll keep loving you from the inside out,
and your tiny baby bump 🥰
What happens to you
During weeks 18-20 of pregnancy, women begin to feel the first movements of the fetus. These sensations are often described as fluttering, bubbles, or a slight rolling. However, some pregnant women might confuse them with intestinal gas, as women who have already given birth usually feel movement more often. This increased activity can make it harder for women to rest comfortably.
Uterus
At week 18 of pregnancy, the uterus continues to grow and reaches the size of a coconut or a small melon. The future mother might notice a firm contour between her belly button and pubic bone. If her belly is approximately 2-2.5 cm below the umbilicus, the doctor can easily feel the top of the uterus. The doctor can also determine its size and position. If the woman feels any discomfort, she should contact her healthcare provider. The uterus can sometimes cause discomfort in the lower back and waist, especially if it slightly tilts the pelvis forward. During this period, it's important to choose comfortable clothing. To reduce the load on the back and avoid pain in the spine and pelvis, women are advised to wear supportive underwear or special belts when necessary.
The torso
From week 18 of pregnancy, the internal organs, such as the kidneys and bladder, may be displaced slightly upwards. Women who have already given birth might notice some groin discomfort, which is related to the relaxation of the pelvic ligaments due to hormonal changes. An ultrasound can help assess the position of the placenta, determine the size of the fetal head, and check the condition of the umbilical cord and fetal bones, including the skull and long bones. It's also important to monitor the health of the mother and fetus, including blood pressure, and to watch for any symptoms of preterm labor.
Placental attachment
Between weeks 18 and 22, the doctor performs a repeat ultrasound examination. Despite the fact that the ultrasound can determine the fetal gender, it is recommended to do this now.
Investigations
- Urinalysis
- Cytology
- Screening for streptococcal bacteria (full or partial), low-lying placenta
Development of the twin pregnancy
The development of twins as a whole does not differ from that of single pregnancies. However, the significant increase in size can cause discomfort. From weeks 16-17 of pregnancy, women with multiple pregnancies will notice more discomfort compared to women carrying one baby.
It is also important to keep in mind that after week 18 of pregnancy, the woman's iron levels should be actively increased with medications. Multiple pregnancy can increase the risk of maternal anemia due to exhaustion of hormone reserves.
This list of possible complications is not exhaustive.
Discomforts of pregnancy
At week 18 of pregnancy, the likelihood of nausea and vomiting decreases because the uterus is fully formed. Toxicity usually subsides, but it may recur during certain episodes, especially if the woman experiences mild discomfort or stomach aches. During such times, you should consult a doctor.
Back pain
The growth of the fetus shifts the center of gravity, which can cause back tenderness from the habitual position and may trigger disc discomfort or even sharp pain. To avoid this, the doctor recommends wearing a supporting belt or band around the waist.
Swelling
Swelling in the legs and ankles becomes more prominent as the pregnancy progresses, leading to a deviation from normal size. Usually, it resolves quickly, but persistent swelling, especially with other symptoms like headache or visual disturbances, require immediate medical attention.
Sleep
A full night's sleep of at least 8 hours is essential, and if necessary, daytime rest is recommended.
Favorite hobbies
Engaging in hobbies such as reading literature or listening to classical music helps relax and distract from discomforts.
What pregnant women should avoid
- Smoking in any amount, as tobacco narrows blood vessels and worsens placental supply.
- Consuming high-sugar, preservative-rich, fatty, and fried foods, as well as processed meats, which contain additives.
Healthy Eating
As a future mom, it's especially important to keep a close eye on your nutrition throughout pregnancy. Your diet should be varied and balanced, with plenty of vitamins included.
To avoid gaining too much weight, it's recommended to limit your intake of fatty foods and sweets. Incorporate nutritious, calorie-controlled foods like lean meats, kefir, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products into your daily routine to ensure your baby gets enough essential nutrients.
Vitamins and Minerals Needed
For proper fetal development and supporting a healthy pregnancy, a mother’s diet must include a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. You can find these in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
This water-soluble vitamin participates in nerve impulses, energy processes, and also helps maintain the level of glycogen in the body. To support your baby’s growth, include thiamine-rich foods like bread from coarse flour, fish, nuts, seeds, green vegetables, pork, and eggs.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
This vitamin is part of the enzyme complexes involved in oxidative-reductive processes. It also helps normalize hormones. You can find it in meat, dairy, grains, green vegetables, beans, and fish oils and products.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
This vitamin plays a key role in DNA synthesis, supports blood formation, and promotes the development of blood cells. It can be found in meat, blood sausage, liver, eggs, and milk products.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen, prevents blood clotting, and supports the growth of blood vessels. It also boosts the immune response and helps the body absorb other vitamins, slowing down aging processes. Rich sources include citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and seafood.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Vitamin A is essential for the formation of the visual system, strengthening the bones and muscles, improving skin and mucous membrane health. A deficiency can weaken immunity and negatively impact vascular health. It’s found in fish, red meats, liver, dairy, and seeds.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for proper bone formation, muscle, and dental health, supporting calcium absorption. Deficiency can lead to osteomalacia, rickets, bone deformities, and poorer skin and dental conditions. It is mainly found in oily fish, eggs, cod liver oil, and mushrooms.
Calcium
Calcium is needed in every cell of the body. A deficiency can cause muscle cramps, swelling, weakness, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue. Rich sources include beef, milk, nuts, seeds, seafood, and dairy products.
Iron
Iron is a vital part of hemoglobin, influencing the body’s oxygen supply and supporting the formation of blood cells. It can be found in all types of meat, offal, fish, seeds, and seafood.
Zinc
Zinc plays an essential role in blood formation, preventing bleeding, and supporting immune functions. It is present in nuts, dairy, grains, seeds, fish, and seafood.
Helpful Tips
Start doing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, and here are some well-known knee exercises. Sit down and gently tighten the muscles around your knee as if you're trying to hold in your pee. Keep the muscles engaged for about 10 seconds, then relax slowly. Repeat this 5 times, gradually increasing to 10, doing the workout 2-3 times a day.
Your little one might already be able to hear you, so now is a great time to fill their evenings with interesting children's books. When dad reads to the baby at bedtime, he’s strengthening the bond with your little one and will almost instantly recognize her voice and heartbeat after birth. It’s a good idea for dad to prepare ahead to make it the best possible experience for your tiny boy or girl. And mom can get in the mood by reading along with you and enjoying a nice book together. It’s truly lovely!
Exercises for Future Moms
After a gentle warm-up of your first trimester, especially when pregnancy symptoms like tiredness, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness start to fade or even disappear, your body begins to restore its energy. It's a great idea to channel that energy into some healthy movement. Not only will this help you stay active, but it can also make a real difference in your postpartum weight management and overall well-being after giving birth.
Just remember, your physical activity during pregnancy has its limits. It's not recommended to push yourself to the point of exhaustion—things like abdominal crunches, jumps, or vigorous exercises that could cause sudden spikes in arterial blood pressure—are best avoided. Gentle movements that influence your pelvic circulation, like lying on your back, are perfectly fine and even beneficial.
Problems During Pregnancy
Discomfort
As your pregnancy progresses, the organs of your abdominal cavity start to shift upward, which can cause discomfort. To help prevent this unpleasant feeling, avoid lying flat immediately after eating and stick to eating smaller portions, about 200 ml per serving. Some women notice that heartburn relief, caused by relaxing the gastrointestinal muscles, can come and go. To make it easier, follow your gastric specialist’s advice, including maintaining a healthy diet, eating small meals, and keeping an eye on your digestive health.
Lower back pain
A gain in weight and increased blood volume put extra pressure on your legs, which can lead to varicose veins. Microclots may also cause cramps in your muscles. Limiting your activity time and lifting your legs during breaks can help. If necessary, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and recommended treatments.
Headaches
Headaches are rare during pregnancy, so they usually don't cause alarm. However, if you frequently experience them, make sure to inform your doctor about this, as they can evaluate whether it’s something to be concerned about and suggest appropriate tests.
Dizziness
Dizziness is rare but possible during pregnancy. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down immediately to avoid falling or injuring yourself. Staying well-hydrated and getting enough rest can also help reduce dizziness.
Leg Cramps
As your weight and blood volume increase, cramps in your legs may occur. Microclots can sometimes trigger muscle spasms. To ease this, try to limit long periods of standing, and elevate your legs during rest. If cramps become frequent or severe, consult your doctor for advice.
Swelling
Swelling is uncommon but can happen occasionally. Usually, it’s nothing to worry about. However, if your swelling is sudden, painful, or persistent, please notify your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.
