Baby development week 18
18 Weeks Pregnant | Pregnancy
You may feel your baby move for the first time around now. If you are feeling something now, it may feel like a gentle fluttering sensation.
What's happening in my body?
You might be starting to feel a bit clumsier as your belly gets bigger. Your breasts may have gone up a size, too, particularly if it's your first pregnancy. Your blood pressure is probably a bit lower than it was, so do not leap up from the sofa, or it could make you feel dizzy.
Your baby has been moving around for the past couple of months, but you might not have noticed. You may start feeling some movement now though – it feels like a bubbling or fluttering inside your belly.
You may also notice a line down your stomach, called the “linea nigra” (Latin for "black line"). This is normal skin pigmentation and nothing to worry about. It will probably vanish a few months after the birth.
Your anomaly scan
You'll be offered an anomaly scan at around 18 to 20 weeks. This is a scan that looks at your baby in detail to see if there is anything unusual about their development and appearance. It can pick up a range of conditions, but not all of them.
The scan will not hurt you or your baby, but it may feel a bit uncomfortable as the sonographer may have to apply a bit of pressure on your stomach to get the best possible view.
Read more about why scans are offered and what they involve on the NCT website.
Is it a boy or a girl?
The sonographer may be able to tell you at this scan, but not everyone wants to know, and it's not always the hospital policy to reveal the sex of the baby. If you do not want to know, tell them before you start of your scan appointment.
Free prescriptions and dental care
Did you know that prescriptions are free during pregnancy? NHS dental treatment is also free. You just need a Maternity Exemption Certificate or card (MatEx).
Ask your midwife, GP or health visitor for the application form FW8.
Your certificate will be valid for up to a year after your baby's due date or date of birth.
2nd trimester pregnancy symptoms (at 18 weeks)
Hopefully you are feeling more energetic and able to manage your pregnancy symptoms now. If you are struggling with day-to-day life, talk to your midwife or doctor, they are there to support you.
Your signs of pregnancy could include:
- stretch marks (read about stretch marks on week 17's page)
- tiredness and sleeping problems (week 19 has information about feeling tired)
- swollen and bleeding gums (week 13 has information about gum health during pregnancy)
- pains on the side of your belly, caused by your expanding womb (known as "round ligament pains")
- headaches
- nosebleeds
- bloating and constipation (read about bloating on week 16's page)
- indigestion and heartburn (week 25 talks about digestive problems)
- sore breasts
- leg cramps
- feeling hot
- dizziness
- swollen hands and feet
- urine infections
- vaginal infections (see week 15 for vaginal health)
- darkened skin on your face or brown patches – this is known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy"
- greasier, spotty skin
- thicker and shinier hair
You may also experience symptoms from earlier weeks, such as:
- morning sickness (read about dealing with morning sickness on week 6's page)
- weird pregnancy cravings (read about pregnancy cravings on week 5's page)
- a heightened sense of smell
- mood swings (week 8's page has information on mood swings)
- a white milky pregnancy discharge from your vagina and light spotting (seek medical advice for any bleeding)
Read Tommy's guide to common pregnancy symptoms.
What does my baby look like?
Your baby, or foetus, is around 14.2cm long from head to bottom, and weighs around 190g. That's approximately the size and weight of a sweet red pepper.
Your baby's hearing, feeling, swallowing and sucking reflexes are developing this week. They will also be doing a lot of wriggling around and moving their arms and legs.
Action stations
Many women will tell their employer after they've had their first pregnancy scan at around 12 weeks. Once you tell your employer, you have maternity rights and can attend antenatal appointments during paid work time. You can also ask for a risk assessment of your workplace to ensure that you're working in a safe environment.
It's a good time to tone up your pelvic floor muscles. Gentle exercises can help to prevent leakage when you laugh, sneeze or cough. Get the muscles going by pretending that you're having a wee and then stopping midflow. Visit Tommy's for more ideas about pelvic floor exercises.
Ask your midwife or doctor about online antenatal classes – they may be able to recommend one. The charity Tommy's has lots of useful information on antenatal classes and preparing you for birth.
Even if you've had children before, they're still worth going to as you can meet other parents-to-be. The NCT offers online antenatal classes with small groups of people that live locally to you.
To keep bones and muscles healthy, we need vitamin D. From late March/early April to the end of September, most people make enough vitamin D from sunlight on their skin. However, between October and early March, you should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement because we cannot make enough from sunlight.
Some people should take a vitamin D supplement all year round, find out if this applies to you on the NHS website. You just need 10 micrograms (it's the same for grown-ups and kids). Check if you're entitled to free vitamins.
It's recommended that you do 150 minutes of exercise a week while pregnant.
You could start off with just 10 minutes of daily exercise - perhaps take a brisk walk outside. Check out Sport England's #StayInWorkOut online exercises (scroll to the pregnancy section). Listen to your body and do what feels right for you.
There's no need to eat for 2. You don't need any extra calories until the third trimester, which starts in week 28. Try to eat healthily, with plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and avoid processed, fatty and salty foods. You may be able to get free milk, fruit and veg through the Healthy Start scheme.
You and your family should follow the government and NHS guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19):
To find out about about COVID-19 and pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, have a look at advice on the:
Baby and You at 18 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms & Development
In this article:
Key takeaways at week 18
Baby's development at week 18
3D anatomy views
Pregnancy symptoms this week
Your body at 18 weeks
Tips for week 18
Checklist for week 18
Key Takeaways at 18 Weeks Pregnant
- Quickening—that’s the term for those early fluttery movements you feel.
If you haven’t felt a little jab yet, just you wait. - Baby is doing all sorts of tricks in utero—swallowing, hiccuping and flipping!
- Symptoms will come and go. You might be experiencing round ligament pain, swelling and varicose veins (oh joy!). Meanwhile, that bump of yours is probably no longer in stealth mode.
- That all-important 20-week ultrasound (a.k.a. anatomy scan) should be on your schedule for the next week or so! Get ready to see baby on screen.
Starting around 18 weeks pregnant, you should begin to sleep on your side instead of your back. That’s because baby (and your uterus) is getting big enough to press against large veins in the back of your abdomen, which can reduce the amount of blood going to your heart, making you feel lightheaded—or worse, lowering your blood pressure. Sounds scary, but it’s totally preventable by simply sleeping on your side. Of course, your veins aren’t the only things that are prone to pressure—you are, too! At pregnancy week 18, there’s a lot going on.
Be sure that you plan some time to take breaks and unwind.
Watch Week 18 Highlights
Baby at Week 18
What the heck is baby doing inside your 18 weeks pregnant belly? A lot! Your 18-week fetus is working their muscles and practicing all kinds of moves. Can you believe baby is yawning, hiccupping, sucking and swallowing? They’re twisting, rolling, punching and kicking, too—and are big enough that you might be able to feel them doing it!
How big is baby at 18 weeks?
At 18 weeks pregnant, baby is as big as an artichoke. Baby's about 5.6 inches long and about 6.7 ounces now and keeps growing quickly. That's why you’re probably feeling so hungry!
What does baby look like at 18 weeks in the womb?
Baby’s face and head are taking shape. The facial features and ears are moving into place—but you need to wait a while to see if they have your eyes or your partner’s nose! Also, an 18-week fetus now has a working digestive system, as well as a light coating of hair all over their body that’s called lanugo.
18 weeks pregnant is how many months?
At 18 weeks, you’re about four months pregnant. Since pregnancy is 40 weeks long, at 18 weeks pregnant you’re nearly half-way there!
18 week ultrasound
At 18 weeks pregnant, the big ultrasound is on your calendar for sometime in the next few weeks. The mid-pregnancy ultrasound (a.k.a. anatomy scan or level-two ultrasound) is a detailed examination of baby’s entire body. It’s a pretty cool peek inside! Your 18-week fetus will be measured to make sure their growth is on track. Major organs will be checked for proper development. And amniotic fluid, placenta location and fetal heart rate will all be examined as well, to be sure baby is thriving.
If you’re 18 weeks pregnant with twins, there’s a membrane that separates your two 18-week fetuses. As they wiggle around in there, they’ll push fluid around and the membrane will shift slightly—you’d probably be able to see that on an 18 weeks pregnant ultrasound.
Yes, if you’re 18-weeks pregnant with twins (or other multiples), both (or all) babies’ anatomy will be scanned at one appointment.
If you want to know whether you’re having a boy or girl, the technician will be able to tell you with about 95 percent certainty at the mid-pregnancy ultrasound—as long as baby moves into a position where their organs are visible. Some babies don’t exactly cooperate!
3D Views: My Baby, My Body
See their progress for yourself with our 3D interactive tool.
See My Baby in 3D
See My Body in 3D
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 18
Not only are you super busy preparing for baby, but you might be having some not-so-fun 18 weeks pregnant symptoms, like swollen feet or hands, backaches, leg cramps and nosebleeds. And the stress and discomfort can keep you up at night around week 18 of pregnancy. Here’s the scoop on the 18 weeks pregnant symptoms you may be feeling:
Swollen feet and/or hands
Swelling can be an annoying pregnancy symptom.
It’s nothing to worry about as long as the swelling isn't sudden or severe. If it is, tell your doctor right away.
Backaches
Baby is putting a lot of pressure on your insides, causing aches and pains in your back. Plus, pregnancy can take a toll on your posture, which can also lead to backaches.
Leg cramps
Cramps can be a sign of dehydration, so drink up!
Varicose veins
These visible purple or blue veins are swollen due to all that extra pressure on your circulatory system. To deal with them, change positions often, prop your legs up when you can, get plenty of exercise and avoid tight clothes and shoes.
Trouble sleeping
Your mind is working overtime and you're getting more and more uncomfortable. This can wreak havoc on your ability to catch the ZZZs you need.
Nosebleeds
Bet you never expected these! Increased pressure on the veins in your nose may be making it bleed more than usual.
If you have a nosebleed, apply pressure by pinching your nose for five to 10 minutes. An ice pack can also help stop the bleeding.
Baby kicks
Whether you’re 18 weeks pregnant with twins, triplets or a single baby, you’re probably feeling not just tiny flutters but more definitive sensations resembling actual kicks. They’re getting stronger!
What should I be feeling at 18 weeks of pregnancy?
If you’re tired and achy, you’re not alone—week 18 symptoms can really wear you down! That’s why it’s important to take care of yourself by eating well, exercising and getting plenty of water and sleep. If you aren’t experiencing the common symptoms, take advantage of the energy you have to start planning for baby’s arrival. Another thing on your to-do list: shopping for maternity clothes. Your 18 week baby bump may be showing!
Your Pregnant Belly at 18 Weeks
Your 18 weeks pregnant belly is rapidly expanding—all the stretching and pressure it’s causing are what’s prompting those symptoms.
Weight gain at 18 weeks pregnant is recommended to be about 1 to 2 pounds per week for women of normal BMI, whether you’re having one baby or you’re 18 weeks pregnant with twins. Let your doctor know if you have any concerns with your weight gain so far. Drastic or sudden weight gain or weight loss could be signs of a problem.
If you’re 18 weeks pregnant and not showing much, everything is probably a-okay. Remember: Every pregnant body is different, and your uterus will grow up and out of your pelvis at a slightly different time than another pregnant woman’s does.
What happens at 18 weeks of pregnancy?
You’re busy taking care of yourself to help baby grow! You still have a couple of weeks until you reach the midpoint of your pregnancy, when you’ll likely have your next big doctor appointment. You can also look forward to an ultrasound, where you get to check in on your little one.
Tips for 18 Weeks Pregnant
Here’s what you can do this week to prioritize your health and wellness—and that of your little one too!
Get a leg up on cramps
In addition to drinking plenty of water, you can help prevent leg cramps by including the right nutrients in your diet.
Make sure you’re getting calcium, magnesium and potassium, either in your prenatal vitamin or in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Treat your feet
Your feet may be swollen thanks to all that extra fluid you’re carrying in your body to support baby at 18 weeks, and gravity isn’t helping matters. You can find some relief by using pillows to elevate your feet above heart level—another good reason to relax and get some rest when you can! If swelling is especially bad, or you’re on your feet a lot, try compression socks.
Stretch it out
Show your aching back some TLC with a couple of simple yoga-style stretches that ease pain. Start in tabletop position on your hands and knees with a flat back, and then round your back upwards as you gently pull your stomach up in cat pose. Hold it for a few seconds before resuming tabletop. Child’s pose is also great—and it’s super relaxing too!
Buy a body pillow
If you’re craving a good night’s sleep (and really, who isn’t?), try using a pregnancy pillow.
It can help you maintain a comfortable sleeping position on your side to accommodate your 18 weeks pregnant belly, and it can even reduce back and hip pain too.
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Pregnancy Checklist at 18 Weeks Pregnant
Reminders for the week:
- Read up on baby care
- Plan a date night with your partner
- Switch your sleep position from back to side
17-20 weeks of pregnancy
17th week
Baby
The 17th week of pregnancy is marked for the baby by an active increase in the mass of his muscles, their gradual strengthening, which allows him to move in the tummy more intensively and variously. Quite frequent movements of the limbs help the child train the muscles, as well as develop the joints of the knees and elbows. At this time, the handles are still clenched into fists, rarely unclenched, and only in order to capture the umbilical cord or suck a finger. Up to 17 weeks, the head of the fetus was practically motionless, rather low, and the chin was close to the chest.
Strengthening the muscles of the dorsal and cervical region at this time allows the child to raise his head almost to a vertical position. nine0008
Internal organs continue to develop and improve. Their structure only becomes more complex, which contributes to the expansion of functionality. Their preparation will allow after the birth of the baby to begin normal, full-fledged functioning.
It is important to note the changes that occur in the system of blood vessels and heart of the fetus. The nerve plexuses that surround the heart give rise to the formation of the conduction system; its uniqueness lies in the fact that the heart does not need external signals to work. All internal organs of a person obey the central nervous system. The brain sends certain instructions according to which each of the organs works. The heart, in turn, functions with the help of command signals that arise in itself and cause it to contract. The exclusively autonomous mode of operation of the heart allows it not to depend on the level of activity of the central nervous system throughout a person's life.
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The 17th week of pregnancy is also characterized by the formation of the respiratory system, namely, the strengthening of the muscles of the lungs. Active respiratory contractions resemble inhalation and exhalation and thereby strengthen the muscles of the chest. There is also the formation of the alveolar apparatus of the lungs. Alveoli are presented in the human body in the form of small bubbles that are located on the surface of the respiratory apparatus and are responsible for gas exchange. Each breath contributes to the saturation of the blood with oxygen. At the 17th week, the alveoli are in a compressed state, but immediately after birth with the first breath, they will straighten out and be ready for normal functioning. nine0008
The weight of the fetus at this time is about 150 g, and the length of the body is 12-13 cm. Normal weight gain for a given week is 5 kg. Also, the 17th week of pregnancy is characterized by an increase in the total blood volume of the expectant mother, because her fetus needs intensive nutrition.
You can also note a rapid heartbeat due to the passage of a large amount of blood through the heart. Additional contractions of the heart or tachycardia may not be felt at all by the pregnant woman, or cause her discomfort. In the case of an active manifestation of tachycardia, it is necessary to seek help and advice from your gynecologist or cardiologist, who can determine the symptoms of a pregnant woman's heart disease, as well as prescribe the correct treatment to maintain normal well-being. nine0008
A sharp increase in the volume of blood in the habitual circulation can cause an expectant mother to have an increased level of bleeding gums, as well as nosebleeds. An increased load on the capillaries often leads to a failure in their work. Especially vulnerable are the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth. Properly selected vitamin complexes will correct this situation, strengthen the walls of blood vessels. In addition, doctors recommend using a soft toothbrush for hygiene purposes, which will reduce the risk of bleeding gums.
It is also recommended to wash the nasal passages with solutions such as AQUAMARIS, PHYSIOMER, SALIN. If desired, you can prepare a similar solution at home. To do this, you will need 1 teaspoon of salt and a glass of water. All ingredients should be mixed before use. If these simple recommendations are ineffective and bleeding becomes more frequent, you should seek the help of a specialist. nine0008
18th week
Baby
At the 18th week the baby weighs about 200-250 g, and its length is about 20 cm. During this period, the structure of the brain becomes more complex, and its total mass, nerve fibers increase covered with myelin, a special fatty membrane that promotes accelerated conduction of nerve impulses. Already after the birth of the child, this shell will allow the child to respond to stimuli from the outside.
The appearance of the fetus is already a bit like a newborn baby and is actively approaching this state. Facial features are becoming more and more distinct, the ears that were previously tightly pressed to the head are straightening out, the middle ear is being formed, and its perception is also improving.
At this stage of pregnancy, the baby can already perceive stimuli from the outside, respond to all sorts of sounds. The noises that occur in the mother's body due to the active work of the internal organs are quite normal, familiar to him, and also contribute to the training of auditory perception. nine0008
It is impossible not to note the intensive work of the fetal endocrine system. At 18-19 weeks, the release of "baby" hormones is large enough, which allows even the mother's body to provide them. With a lack of own hormones in the body of a woman, they are compensated at the expense of children, and the mother's condition returns to normal.
Expectant mother
This week, some of the mothers feel the first movements of their baby. Most often, women for whom this is the first child can feel fetal movements at 19-20th week. At earlier periods, namely, at 16-18 weeks, those women who already have their own children, as well as quite thin women with a slight layer of fat under the skin, note the movement.
At the first stages, the movements will be rather weak, brief and episodic, but after a short period of time they will become more distinct and become more frequent. The nature of the shocks can be different:
- touches;
- light shocks;
- twitches; nine0041
- rolling.
For a woman, her baby's first kicks are very much expected. This is an exciting moment that will allow the expectant mother to remember these pleasant sensations with trepidation, and also as proof of her connection with the child. At the 18th week, the movements of the child are quite chaotic, diverse and appear during the baby's wakefulness. With emotional stress, they can become more intense. Also, the child may report an insufficient amount of oxygen, which occurs due to the lack of movement of a woman, insufficient time spent on the street, as well as when staying in the same position for a long time (driving a vehicle, at work). Most of the time at this stage of development, the fetus sleeps.
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19th week
Baby
The 19th week is characterized for the fetus by intensive growth of limbs in length, increase in size, slowing down of head growth. Its length is already 25 cm, and its weight is approximately 250-300 g. The child changes greatly in appearance, his body no longer looks disproportionate.
Fat under the skin allows the relief of the torso to change slightly and round. This brown fat is just laid down for a period of 19-20 weeks. After birth, it is he who will perform the function of thermoregulation and protect the child from hypothermia or overheating. With age, this fat disappears and remains only in certain places: in the thickness of a person’s cheeks, in the kidney area, under the armpits, and shoulder blades. nine0008
At this time, the laying of permanent teeth, which are located in the dental plate under the rudiments of milk teeth, and the maturation of the brain also take place. Special processes allow you to establish connections between neurons.
Cells intertwine with each other and create a whole system for the transmission of impulses, ensure the synchronism of the brain. Structures that are responsible for touch, taste, sight, hearing, and smell are actively developing.
Changes also occur in the hematopoietic system. The spleen is connected to the process of formation of blood cells, produces leukocytes, whose task is to protect the child's body from external and internal factors. Under 19-20 weeks, the fetal blood consisted only of erythrocytes and at this stage its composition changes dramatically and approaches the composition of the blood of a newborn.
Expectant mother
The tummy of the expectant mother is actively growing, and the fundus of the uterus is already located up to 2 cm below the navel. Weight gain is about 3-6 kg and is distributed proportionally between the placenta, uterus, fetus, amniotic fluid. The weight of the fetus is only a tenth of the total added weight.
Due to the intensive growth of the uterus, a woman may feel discomfort.
Often this condition manifests itself when changing the position of the body, bending to the sides, walking. The nature of pain can be different. It can be pulling, sharp, sudden pains that occur both on one side and on both sides. The stretching of the ligaments that are attached to the side walls of the uterus and the pelvic bones in order to fix the uterus is quite active. The uterus of a woman is, as it were, in limbo due to this ligamentous apparatus. When the ligaments are pulled during a change in the position of the uterus, pain occurs. nine0008
This kind of pain is quite normal and typical for this period of pregnancy. In critical situations, a gynecologist may recommend that a woman take antispasmodics, which will help to relax the uterus, as well as eliminate the problem of pain almost completely. At the 19th week, it is important for a gynecologist to exclude such risks of pregnancy complications as the threat of miscarriage and uterine hypertonicity. If one of these risks is detected, the expectant mother will be prescribed hospital treatment.
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20th week
Baby
The baby at this time is 28 cm long and weighs about 340 g. Until this week of pregnancy, the length of the fetus was measured by calculating the length from crown to tailbone. After the 20th week, the specialist includes in the concept of growth the length of not only the body, but also the lower limbs as well.
At this stage of development, the child is quite active, makes numerous movements, since there is enough space in the uterus for him to roll, push off the walls, and other movements. The baby can smile, grab the umbilical cord, feel himself, frown, close his eyes. His facial expressions are quite developed and more pronounced than before. nine0008
The skin becomes dense, actively covered with fluffy hairs and a special lubricant. A large amount of this lubricant is in the folds. This lubricant prevents the risk of mechanical friction, has bactericidal properties, and ensures optimal passage of the fetus through the mother's birth canal during childbirth.
It is impossible not to note the intensive development of the gastrointestinal tract. Small portions of amniotic fluid, which the child swallows, wash the walls of the intestines and stomach, lead to the training of peristalsis, and contribute to the contraction of the intestines. nine0008
At the 20th week, amniotic fluid is processed. In the body of a child, the first feces - meconium - is formed. It has a dark green color. It consists of mucus, water, epithelial cells, and bile. Accumulation of meconium is carried out in the intestinal lumen. On the first day of birth, it comes out.
Expectant mother
The 20th week is the end of the first half of a woman's pregnancy. Starting from the following weeks, the load on the body of the expectant mother only increases. This fact can be explained by the active development of the fetus in the womb. nine0008
The belly of a pregnant woman is significantly enlarged, and the fundus of the uterus is already at the level of the navel.
During this period, a woman may complain about the manifestation of symptoms of shortness of breath: after all, the uterus is already beginning to put pressure on the lungs. Also characteristic of this week is an increase in urination. Squeezing of the bladder leads to frequent urination.
The discharge from the woman's vagina also increases. A large blood flow contributes to increased secretion production. The discharge may be mucous or white. It should also be noted that they should not have a foreign unpleasant odor, and also cause itching, burning. Changes in a woman's secretions are an occasion to consult a doctor for advice, because this can signal to the expectant mother about the presence of various kinds of diseases. Curdled, thick, yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor can signal the presence of sexual infections and their exacerbation, a violation of the microflora, and the manifestation of thrush. Pregnant women are prone to colpitis, as their mucosa becomes more attractive to microbes, promotes their active reproduction and thereby increases the risk of infection of the fetus with an infection.
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That is why, on the 20th week, women must pass screenings, a smear of secretions for flora, and also undergo diagnostics of genital infections. If any signs of deterioration in the condition of the pregnant woman are detected, the doctor may prescribe an additional examination and a course of treatment.
what is happening, the development of pregnancy and fetus
Week by week
17th - 20th weeks of pregnancy
Elena Gevorkova
Obstetrician-gynecologist, Moscow
17th week
BABY
The body length of the fetus at this period is 12-13 cm, and its weight reaches 150 g by the end of the 17th week.
The main process of this week is to increase the baby's muscle mass. Various muscle groups are strengthened, which is manifested by increased motor activity of the fetus. Movements become more varied and complex. Frequent movements of the arms and legs not only train the muscles, but also contribute to the development of joints - knee and elbow.
The handles are clenched into fists and are unclenched infrequently - to capture the umbilical cord or when sucking a finger. Until this time, the fetal head practically did not move, it was lowered low, the chin was tightly pressed to the chest. By the 17th week, the muscles of the back and neck are strengthened so much that the fetal head can rise to an almost vertical position. nine0008
All internal organs continue to improve, their structure becomes more complex, and their functional abilities expand. In other words, intensive preparation continues, allowing the internal organs to begin full-fledged work immediately after the birth of the child.
Important changes are taking place in the baby's cardiovascular system. Around the heart there are many nerve plexuses that form the conduction system of the heart. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that the heart does not require external signals to work. Each internal human organ obeys the central nervous system - the brain, which sends a command, and the organ works according to the signal "from above".
The peculiarity of the functioning of the heart lies in the fact that the command signals that cause it to contract arise in itself. This autonomous mode allows the heart to work throughout life, day and night, regardless of the activity of the central nervous system. nine0008
The development of the fetal respiratory system continues. The respiratory muscles of the lungs are strengthened. Breathing movements become more and more intense - contractions that simulate inhalation and exhalation, which allows you to strengthen the muscles of the chest. At a period of 17 weeks, the alveolar apparatus of the lungs is completely formed. Alveoli are the end parts of the respiratory apparatus in the lung, having the form of tiny bubbles, in which, after the birth of the baby, gas exchange will occur: oxygen from the air will enter the blood vessels of the lungs, and carbon dioxide will be released into the lumen of the alveoli. Each breath will saturate the baby's blood with oxygen. From 17 weeks, the fetal alveoli are in a collapsed state.
The first breath of the baby will fill the lungs with air, and the alveoli will expand widely. nine0008
Expectant MOM
The tummy continues to grow, and the bottom of the uterus is in the middle between the pubic symphysis (pubis) and the navel. Weight gain by this period is about 5 kg. An increase in the total volume of the mother's blood is natural, since the fetus needs intensive nutrition. The expectant mother feels this as a rapid heartbeat, as more blood passes through the heart of a pregnant woman than usual, and this requires additional heart contractions. An increased heartbeat - tachycardia - may not be felt at all, and may be a source of discomfort for a woman. If you experience tachycardia, you should report it to your gynecologist or cardiologist to determine if it is normal or a symptom of a heart condition such as an arrhythmia. nine0008
Another manifestation of increased blood volume (CBV) in pregnant women can be nosebleeds and increased bleeding of the gums.
This is due to the increased load on thin-walled vessels - capillaries located in the mucous membranes of the nasal and oral cavities. Vitamins come to the rescue, the timely appointment of which will strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Hygiene procedures will also require caution: the use of toothbrushes with soft bristles is recommended. If minor nosebleeds appear, you can rinse the nasal passages with a salt solution using AQUAMARIS, PHYSIOMER, SALIN preparations or prepare the solution yourself by adding 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of water. The salt solution will compress the walls of the capillaries of the mucosa, thereby helping to stop the bleeding. For more severe bleeding, see a doctor. nine0008
18th week
BABY
At the 18th week, the length of the fetus is 20 cm, and the weight reaches 200-250 g.
During this period, the structure of the brain becomes more complicated, its total mass increases. Nerve fibers that braid organs and tissues are covered with a special fatty sheath - myelin.
The myelin sheath provides a high speed of nerve impulses. In the future, this will allow a person to instantly respond to external stimuli, for example, pull his hand away from a hot or sharp object at the slightest contact with it. nine0008
The appearance of the fetus approaches the appearance of a newborn child, facial features become more and more distinct, ears straighten out, which until this time were tightly pressed to the head.
The middle ear is being formed and the neural transmission pathway responsible for auditory perception is being improved. In other words, from this period the baby is able to perceive external stimuli and respond to excessively loud sounds - knocking doors, screams, car signals, etc. The noises of the mother's body (intestinal peristalsis, heartbeat, blood flow through large vessels, etc.) are a completely normal environment for the fetus, moreover, they train his auditory perception. nine0008
The fetal endocrine system functions very intensively.
Starting from the period of 18-19 weeks, the release of "children's" hormones is so great that even the mother's body is able to provide. For example, if the mother had an insufficiency of adrenal or thyroid hormones, then at this time it is quite possible to compensate for this condition.
Expectant MOM
18 weeks of pregnancy is the period when you can feel the movements of the fetus. Usually, in primiparas, these sensations occur later - at 19— 20th week. As a rule, at earlier periods (at 16-18 weeks), movements are felt by multiparous or thin women who have an insignificant layer of subcutaneous fat.
At first it will be episodic, short-term, weak sensations. After some time, the movements are felt more and more clearly. Their nature can be different: light pushes, touches, rolling or twitching. The first movements of the baby are a very anticipated and exciting moment in the life of pregnant women. For the first time, the expectant mother receives a response to her condition, “proof” of the connection between her and the baby.
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Fetal movements are very chaotic, varied. The motor activity of the fetus increases during its wakefulness and is practically absent during sleep. Most of the time the fetus sleeps. Movement can become more active if the expectant mother is experiencing emotional stress. In this case, the level of stress hormones in the pregnant woman's body rises and the fetus, receiving them with the mother's blood, experiences similar sensations, which is manifested by an increase in its activity. Also, the baby may respond to an insufficient supply of oxygen to the mother's body if the pregnant woman does not move much, spends insufficient time in the fresh air, or is in a forced position for a long time (for example, driving a car). nine0008
19th week
BABY
At the 19th week the fetus is 25 cm tall and weighs 250-300 g. , and the fetal head significantly slows down its growth. Due to this, the baby changes outwardly and no longer looks disproportionate.
The relief of the fetal body changes somewhat and acquires roundness due to the accumulation of subcutaneous fat. This is the so-called brown fat of newborns, which is laid down for a period of 19-20 weeks and after the birth of a child, it performs the function of thermoregulation - it protects against overheating and hypothermia. Gradually, this fat disappears, and in adults it remains in the form of lumps in the thickness of the cheeks, in the region of the kidneys, shoulder blades, and armpits.
At this time, an interesting event occurs - the laying of molars (permanent) teeth. They are located under the rudiments of milk teeth in the thickness of the dental plate - this is a special formation from which the maxillo-dental complex is formed and which disappears by the full term of pregnancy. nine0008
The most important process of the 19th week of fetal development is rightly considered the maturation of the brain. Separate units of the brain (neurons) form connections with each other with the help of special processes.
Cells seem to cling to each other, thereby providing the possibility of a variety of pathways for the passage of impulses and the synchronism of the brain. There is a formation of brain structures responsible for perception - taste, sight, smell, hearing, touch.
Interesting changes occur in the hematopoietic system of the fetus. The spleen is involved in the formation of blood cells. It produces mainly "white" blood cells - leukocytes. Their main task is to protect the body from external and internal factors - toxins, microbes, etc. Thus, the composition of the blood of the fetus changes. Until deadline 19At 20 weeks, the fetal blood consisted exclusively of erythrocytes - red blood cells, but now it is close in composition to the blood of a newborn.
Future MOM
The tummy continues to grow rapidly, and by this time the bottom of the uterus is 1.5-2 cm below the navel.
By the 19th week, the weight of the pregnant woman increases by 3-6 kg.
This increase is distributed between the placenta, amniotic fluid, uterus and fetus, and it accounts for only a tenth of the total weight. nine0008
Rapid growth of the uterus may cause discomfort. Most often this is due to the fact that when you change the position of the body, when walking or bending, pain is felt in the lateral sections. Its nature is different: the pain can be pulling or sudden, acute, occur only on one side or on both. This is how the ligaments are stretched. These are special strands that are attached to the side walls of the uterus and pelvic bones and fix the uterus. The uterus is "suspended" with the help of this ligamentous apparatus. When there is a change in its position, the ligaments are stretched, and this can cause pain. nine0008
Such "ligamentous" pains are normal and do not require treatment - sometimes it is enough to take antispasmodics that relax the uterus and eliminate pain. But you need to inform your gynecologist about this condition and undergo an examination to exclude pregnancy complications - uterine hypertonicity, the threat of interruption.
In this case, treatment should be prescribed - possibly in a hospital setting.
20th week
BABY
Fetal length reaches 28 cm, weight increases to 340 g.
Until the 20th week, the length of the baby was measured from the crown to the coccyx, after this period, the concept of growth will also include the length of the body and legs.
The fetus is active, makes many different movements: pushes off the walls of the uterus, somersaults, grabs the umbilical cord with its handles, feels itself. The facial expressions of the baby become more pronounced: he frowns, smiles, closes his eyes.
The skin of the fetus thickens, completely covered with downy hairs and cheese-like grease. The largest amount of lubricant accumulates in the folds, which prevents skin irritation during mechanical friction. Also, the lubricant has bactericidal properties, and during childbirth, it provides better gliding of the fetus along the mother's birth canal.
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The gastrointestinal tract is developing intensively. The fetus constantly swallows amniotic fluid in small portions, which washes the stomach and intestines and trains peristalsis - reducing bowel movements.
From the 20th week, the process of processing amniotic fluid begins, a prototype of future digestion. The fetus produces the original feces - meconium, a sticky substance of a dark green color. Meconium consists of epithelial cells, mucus, bile and water. It accumulates in the intestinal lumen of the fetus and normally comes out on the first day after birth. nine0008
Future MOM
20 weeks complete the first half of pregnancy. Starting from this period, the load on the mother's body increases due to the intensive growth of the fetus.
The tummy increases in size, the height of the fundus of the uterus reaches the level of the navel. The growing uterus begins to put pressure on the lungs, pregnant women experience the first symptoms of shortness of breath.
Some increase in urination is possible. The reason for this is mechanical irritation due to compression of the bladder by the growing uterus. In many cases, there is an increase in the volume of vaginal discharge. The extra blood flow to the genitals causes an increase in vaginal secretion, which appears as a mucus or white discharge. Normally, they should not have a smell and be accompanied by discomfort in the vagina - itching, burning, etc. It is necessary to monitor the nature of the discharge and consult a doctor for any changes - with the appearance of yellow, thick, curdled discharge, an unpleasant odor, etc. Such whites can be a sign of trouble - thrush, microflora disorders, exacerbation of genital infections. During pregnancy, the tendency to inflammation of the vagina - colpitis - increases, as the mucosa changes its composition and becomes more "attractive" to microbes. Saturation with mucus increases its nutritional value, and microbes multiply in such an environment at a high rate.
