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