BabyBerry18 Weeks Pregnant
Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.
Your baby this week
Your baby is about the size of a sweet potato, measuring around 5.6 inches and weighing about 6.7 ounces. Baby is yawning, hiccuping, sucking, and swallowing inside your womb — all essential practice for life outside. The ears have reached their final position on the sides of the head and are now standing out. Myelin, a protective coating, is beginning to form around the nerves — a process that will continue well after birth and is essential for fast nerve signal transmission. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are now in place; if a boy, his genitals may be visible on ultrasound.
How you may feel
You may feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing up quickly, a condition called orthostatic hypotension caused by cardiovascular changes as your body adjusts to increased blood volume. Your heart is working 40-50% harder than before pregnancy, pumping significantly more blood per minute. You may be able to feel your uterus just below your belly button now. Sleep disturbances may increase as finding a comfortable position becomes more challenging. Some women notice changes in their vision due to fluid retention affecting the shape of the cornea — this is usually temporary but worth mentioning to your provider.
Common symptoms
- Fetal movements are stronger — you may feel distinct kicks and rolls now.
- Dizziness when standing up quickly due to blood pooling in your legs.
- Back pain increases as your growing uterus shifts your center of gravity forward.
This week's tips
Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness — sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before standing up. Stay well-hydrated and eat regular small meals to help maintain stable blood pressure. The mid-pregnancy anatomy scan (also called the anomaly scan or level 2 ultrasound) is typically scheduled between weeks 18-22 — this detailed ultrasound examines baby's organs, limbs, brain, spine, and heart, and can reveal the sex if you want to know. Prepare a list of questions for the sonographer, and consider whether you want to find out the baby's sex beforehand so you're ready when asked.
Eating well
- Eat bananas, potatoes, and beans to meet higher potassium needs (2,900 mg/day).
- Include lean beef or fortified cereals to keep iron stores from dropping.
- Drink a glass of milk or calcium-fortified beverage with lunch and dinner.
Nutrition focus
- A mid-pregnancy blood test may reveal if you need additional iron or vitamin D.
- Phosphorus (700 mg/day) works with calcium for bone building — found in meat and dairy.
Everyday wellbeing
- The anatomy scan (detailed ultrasound) is usually scheduled for weeks 18–22.
- Prenatal massage can safely relieve back tension — find a certified therapist.
- Start thinking about nursery setup and essential baby gear purchases.
For your partner
The anatomy scan is one of the most exciting and detailed ultrasounds of the entire pregnancy — do everything you can to be there for it. You'll get to see your baby's face, spine, heart chambers, and tiny fingers and toes on the screen. Discuss with your partner beforehand whether you want to find out the baby's sex, and make sure you're both on the same page. If you can't attend in person, ask if the clinic allows video calling so you can still be part of the experience. This is also a meaningful time to start thinking about names if you haven't already.
Signs to mention to your provider
- Reduced or absent fetal movements after previously feeling them — call your provider.
- Painful swelling in one leg (not both) may indicate deep vein thrombosis.
- Bleeding gums are normal, but loose teeth or severe gum pain need dental evaluation.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.