Baby development at 18 weeks
The features of your baby’s face, including the ears, nose, and lips, are distinguishable in an ultrasound. Additionally, the development of eyelids, eyebrows, eyelashes, nails, and hair is underway!
Branching lungs
In the baby’s lungs, the tiniest tubes (bronchioles) are beginning to form. At the extremities of these small tubes, respiratory sacs are emerging. By the time your baby is born, these sacs will intertwine with minuscule blood vessels, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Development of gender-specific parts
For parents expecting a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are already formed and in position. If it’s a boy, his genitals are now visible.
Your baby is about the size of a bell pepper
Pregnancy symptoms during week 18
Increased Appetite:
Experiencing hunger? It’s entirely normal to have an increased appetite and specific food cravings around the 18th week of pregnancy. Your body is diligently working to support your baby, demanding a substantial amount of energy. Your meals play a crucial role in fueling the changes occurring during pregnancy, such as increased blood volume, the growth of your breasts and uterus, and the buildup of fat stores. To address your hunger and optimize nutritional intake, consider consuming a small meal or snack every three hours, focusing on foods that offer a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy (unsaturated) fats.
Dizziness:
Your body is undergoing significant changes, and sometimes, the cardiovascular and nervous systems may struggle to adapt quickly. This can result in feelings of lightheadedness, dizziness, or even fainting, especially when transitioning from a lying or sitting position to standing too rapidly. Factors like anemia, insufficient food or water intake, excessive exercise, or overheating can contribute to these sensations. If persistent lightheadedness or frequent bouts of dizziness occur, it’s advisable to inform your healthcare provider.
Swelling:
Experiencing swelling in your feet and ankles during pregnancy is normal, and mild swelling in your hands and fingers can also occur. However, sudden and severe swelling may indicate a more serious issue. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience abrupt or excessive swelling, substantial swelling in your hands or face, or if you observe other signs of preeclampsia. Additionally, contact your provider if you notice any indications of a blood clot, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Vaginal Discharge:
Throughout pregnancy, an increase in vaginal discharge is common due to elevated estrogen levels, stimulating the production of more discharge. Healthy discharge is typically clear to milky white, with a consistency ranging from thin to thick and mucus-like. It should be mild-smelling or odorless. Familiarize yourself with the various types of discharge during pregnancy for a better understanding.
Leg Cramps:
The occurrence of leg cramps during pregnancy remains somewhat mysterious, but they are believed to be linked to swelling and the added weight you’re carrying, necessitating increased effort from your leg muscles. When faced with a leg cramp, alleviate it by stretching your calf muscles, straightening your leg, and flexing your toe back towards your shins. Following the stretch, massage the muscle and consider applying heat, such as a heating pad or hot-water bottle. To prevent leg cramps, avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting with crossed legs, engage in a daily walk, stay hydrated, take a warm bath before bedtime, and incorporate calf muscle stretches, ankle rolls, and toe wiggles into your daily routine. Some women find relief by taking a magnesium supplement as well.
Pregnancy checklist at 18 weeks pregnant
Consider your maternity leave
It’s never too early to start planning for your maternity leave. Take the initiative to explore the benefits you qualify for and complete any necessary paperwork well in advance. Additionally, it’s a good idea to encourage your partner to investigate their options for paternity or parental leave.
Prepare your older children
If you already have a child, the arrival of a new baby can significantly impact their world. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to prepare your child for the upcoming sibling, tailored to their age and interests. Importantly, allocate one-on-one time with the future big sibling before the newest addition arrives.
Enroll in childbirth classes
Attending childbirth classes, ranging from one day to a month or more, is highly advisable for proper birth preparation. These classes cover what to expect before, during, and after labor, along with techniques to manage labor pain. Whether offered by hospitals, independent childbirth educators, or online platforms, these classes can be invaluable.
Manage stress
In addition to the physical changes associated with creating a new life, you are likely contending with various symptoms and adjustments. Coping with stress during pregnancy is normal, but it’s crucial to address it before it becomes overwhelming. Learn effective stress management techniques and recognize when it’s time to seek assistance.
Incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet
Your need for additional iron during pregnancy (27 mg per day instead of 18 mg) is especially pronounced in the second and third trimesters. With increased blood volume, iron is essential for producing the protein that transports oxygen throughout the body and maintaining a robust immune system. Excellent sources of iron include meat, poultry, tuna, fortified cereal, edamame, legumes, tofu, and spinach. Enhance iron absorption by cooking with a cast-iron pan and incorporating foods rich in vitamin C into your meals.
English 
Arabic