18 Weeks Pregnant: Baby is as big as an bell pepper!

Week 18 at a glance

At 18 weeks pregnant, baby is the size of an bell pepper (cute!). You might have backache and trouble sleeping now you’re almost halfway through pregnancy. At 18 weeks pregnant, you’re close to reaching your midway mark, mama! Wow! So, if you’re asking how many months is 18 weeks pregnant? Well, you’re into the fifth month of pregnancy now, and it’s a good idea to take some chill time before you get into the later stages. We’re talking spa day, movie trip, or date night with your partner. Sounds good, right?! What else is going on at 18 weeks pregnant? Here’s what to expect:
In this article: 📝

• Week 18 at a glance
• Baby development at 18 weeks
• Pregnancy symptoms at 18 weeks
• Pregnancy tips at 18 weeks

Baby development at 18 weeks

Your 18-week fetus is about the size of a bell pepper and will weigh almost 7oz. They’re doing some pretty rapid growth at the moment, and you may be starting to feel their kicks and punches as they practice their somersaults! In your 18 weeks pregnant belly, your baby will;

• Have a working digestive system.
  
  
• Be developing a coating of lanugo all over their body ‒ a very fine hair that will shed later on in the third trimester.
  
  
• Be able to yawn and hiccup. Adorable!
  
  
• Be maturing their nervous system ready for the outside world.
  
  
• Finally have their ears in their final place on the sides of their head.
  
  
• Have developed genitals so you can find out the sex of your baby on your next scan (if they’re positioned just right)!

Pregnancy symptoms at 18 weeks

The list of 18-week pregnant symptoms isn’t very fun (sorry!) but know that whatever you’re feeling, be kind to yourself. And don’t feel silly mentioning your symptoms to your doctor or midwife next time you see them ‒ they might be able to help!

Swollen feet

Thanks to the wonders of gravity, all that extra blood and bodily fluid you’re producing to grow your baby tend to pool in your feet and ankles ‒ especially after a day on your feet. Try to avoid long periods of standing if possible and lie down with your feet propped on a pillow or two in the evenings.

Backache

Your center of gravity is all out of whack thanks to your growing uterus. Your lower back is naturally pulled forwards as your abdomen grows outwards, so it’s no wonder it’s super sore. We hear you, mama. Doing some gentle exercise will help your muscles adapt so you feel fitter for longer throughout pregnancy and can aid a quicker postpartum recovery too.

Trouble sleeping

Whether it’s the weird dreams, leg cramps, or all the pregnancy and birth stuff going on in your mind that you just can’t switch off, it can be hard to get a decent night’s sleep. It’s important that you go to sleep on your left side now, so an arrangement of pillows can help prop you up. Some simple stretches, reading, or meditating, might help you drift off, and some pregnant mamas swear by magnesium supplements to help with the leg cramps (but remember to get the “ok” from your doctor before you start taking anything new).

Pregnancy tips at 18 weeks

Your uterus is about the size of a sweet potato, and you might be able to feel the top of it, around 1.5 inches below your navel. Between 18 and 22 weeks, you’ll be due to have a mid-pregnancy or anatomy scan, which is a detailed look at all baby’s body parts to make sure they’re developing properly. They will also check the placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid to make sure they’re all helping your baby to thrive. Here’s your 18 weeks pregnant checklist:

• Sign up for all the classes: Birthing classes, breastfeeding classes (if you choose to), newborn care classes, infant CPR… There’s lots to learn!
  
  
• Book your next prenatal appointment: Your healthcare provider will check on you and your babe, and make sure everything’s on track.
  
  
• Get inspired for baby’s nursery: Time to channel your inner interior designer and create a cozy, cute, and functional space for your little one. Need some ideas? We’ve got you covered.
  
  
• Register for baby gear: Create a baby registry and add all the essentials that you’ll need. Diapers, pacifiers, onesies, you name it ‒ it’s all fair game.
  
  
• Get your downward dog on: Try prenatal yoga for a chance to stretch, relax, and connect with other expecting moms. You’ll feel refreshed and centered in no time.
  
  
• Plan a babymoon: Take a well-deserved break with your partner and enjoy some R&R before baby arrives. It’s the perfect excuse for a romantic getaway!
  
  
• Party time! Plan a gender reveal or baby shower and celebrate with your loved ones. From cupcakes to confetti cannons, there are endless ways to make it a memorable occasion.
  
  
• Birth plan 101: Start thinking about your birth preferences, like pain management, delivery options, and who will be in the room. It’s like drafting a battle plan, but with a much cuter prize at the end.
  
  
• Say cheese! Book a maternity photoshoot and capture your beautiful bump in all its glory. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your style and personality!
  
  
• Name game: Brainstorm baby names with your partner and let the creativity flow. From traditional to unique, there’s a name out there that’ll fit your babe perfectly.
  
  
• Treat yourself: Invest in some cute and comfy maternity clothes that make you feel like a boss. No need to sacrifice style for comfort!

It’s easy to go into panic mode when you realize you’re almost halfway through your pregnancy, but speaking to other mamas-to-be on Peanut or starting to think about your baby shower are great ways to get excited for what’s to come!