Pregnancy week 18
Trimester 2 · Baby is about a sweet potato
The baby yawns, stretches and hears your heartbeat and voice.
How your body may feel
- • Movements become clearer.
- • Dizziness when standing quickly.
- • Heartburn may begin.
Self-care this week
- • Eat smaller meals to reduce heartburn.
- • Avoid lying flat straight after eating.
- • Rise slowly from sitting or lying.
Milestone
The anomaly scan is usually offered between 18–22 weeks.
Seek care urgently if you notice
- • Severe headache that will not clear, or blurred vision and flashing lights
- • Any vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
- • Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
- • Burning or painful urination, or fever
- • Reduced or absent baby movement once a pattern is established
Related resources
Related articles
Related FAQs
Related warning signs
- Heavy bleeding — Soaking a pad in under an hour, or passing large clots
- Severe headache that won't ease — Especially with blurred vision or sudden swelling
- Difficulty breathing — Breathlessness at rest or when lying down
- Chest pain or a racing heart — Pressure, tightness or fluttering that doesn't settle
Ask Nestora About This Week
Your Companion can explain week 18 in your own words — symptoms, nutrition, what to raise at your next visit.
Ask Nestora About This Week