18th Week of Pregnancy
By 18th week of pregnancy, your body undergoes many changes. People can make out that you are pregnant by this time. Apart from these apparent changes, there are so many changes occurring in your body that others cannot recognize. Some of you may suffer from low blood pressure. However the good news is those of you were suffering from dizziness for last few weeks, may get some relief because of decrease in giddiness.
Your approximately 6.29 inches long baby weighs just about 5 ½ ounces. There are many developmental changes occurring with the baby. If you are carrying a baby boy, then it is the time when his genitals, the reproductive organs, especially the external sex organs are formed. Some of you may even notice them in the ultrasound if your baby doesn’t hide his genitals by curling in opposite direction. And if you are carrying a baby girl then her fallopian tubes and uterus have been placed at their respective places.
Your baby’s nerves are getting protective layer that is myelin. It is a whitish material made up of protein and fats that surrounds some nerve cells. This process will continue till your baby becomes one year old. This weeks ultrasound test will help your healthcare provider know more details about the growth of your baby’s different organs and body parts.
Taking proper care throughout the pregnancy is very essential. Though getting comfortable sleeping position is difficult during pregnancy, getting enough sleep is also important. If you are a working mom-to-be, then try to be relaxed for at least 15-20 minutes by taking a nap. If you are not working, then make sure you take sufficient rest and sleep for some time in the afternoons. If you have older kids to look after, then plan their activities in such a manner that you will get at least half an hour for yourself. Let your partner take care of your other kid/s so that you can use that spare time going for a walk, taking nap or just relax.
Breast tenderness, headaches, heartburn, constipation, frequent urination and itching are some of the symptoms you may experience. Do not take any over the counter medicines before consulting with your healthcare provider.
Your movements will be slower than previous weeks because of growing baby. Avoid sudden body movements. When you want to get up from sitting or sleeping position, get up very slowly. This will prevent any accidents from falling down due to dizziness.
Walking, swimming and meditation are considered as the best exercise options during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider. Let him/her decide which exercise is good for you. If you can get yourself enrolled for childbirth classes then it will give you a chance to meet other moms-to-be and you can share your experiences with them and vice-versa.
Do not get perturbed if the weighing scale shows constant increase in your weight. You will get a fair chance to reduce once your deliver your baby. Sometimes it is alright if you gain a few pounds!
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