I’m 18 weeks and 2 days pregnant I’m going to have my anatomy scan at 20 weeks pregnant to find out the gender of my baby and my baby health so exited . At 12 weeks pregnant I had genetic test I got screen positive for trisomy 18 the ultrasound was normal no abnormal was no found through ultrasound thank god I’m 37 and was high risk for trisomy 18 the blood test was positive is happened to you before please tell me
WeMoms
2 Apr 2024
My Baby's Evolution at 18 Weeks of Pregnancy
My Baby's Evolution at 18 Weeks of Pregnancy
Here's a glimpse into what's happening with your baby's development!
Your Baby's Size and Development
- Baby's facial features: Your baby's face is taking on a more recognizable form. The eyes, which were initially on the sides of the head, have now moved closer together. The ears are continuing to develop, and your baby may even start to hear some muffled sounds from the outside world.
- Growing limbs: Those tiny arms and legs are getting stronger and more coordinated. Your baby is practicing different movements, such as stretching, kicking, and even somersaulting. You may start to feel these little flutters and kicks as your baby becomes more active.
- Hair and nails: Hair is starting to grow on your baby's scalp, and nails are developing on the fingers and toes. The hair is still very fine and translucent, but it will continue to grow and thicken throughout the pregnancy.
Sensory Discoveries
As your baby's nervous system matures, they are beginning to explore and experience the world around them in unique ways. Here are some fascinating sensory discoveries your baby is making:
- Taste buds: Taste buds are forming on your baby's tongue, and they may start swallowing small amounts of amniotic fluid. This allows them to experience different flavors, preparing their taste preferences for when they enter the outside world.
- Touch sensitivity: Your baby's skin is becoming more sensitive, and they can now feel gentle touches and movements. They may respond to external stimuli by wriggling or shifting position in the womb.
- Responsive to light: While your baby's eyes are still closed, they can detect changes in light. Shining a light on your belly might elicit a response, as your baby may turn their head or move in response to the stimulation.
Organ Development
By 17 weeks, your baby's organs have been forming and are now continuing to mature and develop further. Here are some notable developments:
- Heartbeat: Your baby's heart is working hard, pumping around 26 quarts of blood every day. The heartbeat can now be heard using a stethoscope or Doppler device during your prenatal appointments.
- Digestive system: The intestines are growing longer and moving into the abdominal cavity. The intestines, liver, and spleen are all starting to work together to support digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Respiratory system: While your baby's lungs are still immature, they are beginning to develop branches of the respiratory tree. These branches will eventually form the bronchial tubes and air sacs needed for breathing after birth.
Communication and Interaction
Even in the womb, your baby is learning to communicate and interact with you. They can sense your emotions and respond to external stimuli. Here's how you can nurture this connection:
- Talk and sing: Your baby can hear your voice, so go ahead and chat with them! Sing songs, read books, and share your thoughts and feelings. This helps your baby become familiar with your voice and creates a bond between you.
- Gentle touch: Caressing your belly gently can provide comfort and a sense of security to your baby. They may respond to your touch by moving or kicking, creating a beautiful physical connection between you.
- Play soothing music: Playing soft and calming music can have a soothing effect on both you and your baby. It creates a peaceful atmosphere and can even help your baby relax and sleep.
Remember, every pregnancy journey is unique, and your baby is growing and developing at their own pace. Enjoy this special time and continue to nurture your connection with your little one as you eagerly await their arrival into the world.
All you need to know
Baby's Second Trimester Tracker
1 min read
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Heaven
22 Aug 2023
Hiii I’m new here , but this is my First pregnancy, I’m Having a baby girl , so far I’m 18 weeks no symptoms at all , and Due in January, also here’s a cute pic from my last ultrasound ❤️❤️ , I would love mommy friends 😬
Heaven
Congratulations to you to mama ❤️❤️
27 Mar 2024
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Haleigh
congratulations momma!! i’m always in need of mom friends too as i’m also expecting my first !🥰 that’s a very very cute pic of your baby girl ❤️
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Syuzi
22 Jul 2023
We’ll be 18 weeks on Wednesday still no baby bump lol this is my first pregnancy !
Unique Love
Kai
mine comes and goes..... this is my 2nd !!!! one-day we're going to wake up and have a big ol belly
27 Mar 2024
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Syuzi
Hehe yesss 🙏
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Samantha
8 Jun 2023
I am 18 weeks and 2 days. Is it normal that I haven't felt my baby yet! This is my second pregnancy. My first pregnancy, my baby boy, was stillborn, and I never really felt him, so I feel like I can't compare anything to my first pregnancy.
Anaalicia
Yes it's normal. I only felt mine at only cause she was on the front part of towards my belly but when the placenta is in front, you don't feel much.
27 Mar 2024
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Harriet
yes, it’s normal. I think some mom starting to really feel it at 20 weeks.
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Danielle
5 Jun 2023
I’m 18 weeks today seems like this pregnancy is flying by💓 ready to hold my little girl💝💗
Ashley
Hey! I’m also 18 weeks today and also expecting a little girl!
27 Mar 2024
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JuJu
25 Apr 2023
I'm 17 almost 18 weeks and been starting to feel my baby movements. Best part about pregnancy.
Kayla✨♥️
Wat does it feel like
27 Mar 2024
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Jenn
20 Mar 2023
Hello all mommy and future mommy it’s my first pregnancy. It’s ok to continue having Morning sickness at 18 weeks?
Naya
Yes I had morning sickness the entire 9 months with my first it all depends unfortunately not everyone’s morning sickness stops at the 2nd trimester 🙃
27 Mar 2024
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RENIA
When I first found out I was pregnant I got sick a little bit but it was so mild I haven’t really got sick no more and I’m 10 weeks today and this my first pregnancy also
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Anju
5 Feb 2023
Currently 18 weeks and this is my first pregnancy. I haven’t felt my baby kick yet. When did y’all first feel the baby kick? I can’t wait to feel the kick 🫶🏼
Anju
What’s that
27 Mar 2024
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Lena
20 Dec 2022
I found out yesterday I'm 18 weeks pregnant and my due date is 5-22-2023. This is my first pregnancy I'm very excited and happy 💕💕
🫧✨🍼PrettyAssMamaof3🍼✨🫧
Lol you found out at 18 weeks? Damn how tf u hide that baby ma'am 😂
27 Mar 2024
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Tameka
Oh wow congratulations to you
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Janeth
27 Nov 2022
Hi y’all, this is my 3rd pregnancy and I’m at 18 weeks +2 but I still done feel the baby and I done have an appointment for another two weeks I’m getting nervous. My fist two I pretty sure by now I felt some flutters.
Triecey
Depends on what type of placenta you have ..
27 Mar 2024
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TMBTM
You probably do feel it, just don't know what it feels like. I know for me, I thought i didn't feel h8m either a d got very nervous. Being this is my 5th pregnancy i should know but I didn't. So, after I told my OB, she said when your mo ing around alot you won't feel it, but when your calm, like abt to sleep is when you'll feel little flutters. And after she said this, I went home and later that night after I went to bed, was when I started to feel him move. At 18 week they are still ery little, so it won't be a hard kick it'll just be a small tickle, like in your growing area.
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