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Stages of Pregnancy Week by Week

Pregnancy Week 18

Your baby is developing in many significant ways this week. Learn what is going on with baby as well as how to boost your own energy and travel safely while pregnant.

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Month 5

Watch Your Baby's Growth

Feeling Baby Move: Weeks 18 to 21 of Pregnancy
Feeling Baby Move: Weeks 18 to 21 of Pregnancy

You'll start feel your baby's fluttering movements (called quickening) between now and 22 weeks. Get ready, mama: Feeling him kick is one of the most magical parts of being pregnant.

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Your Changing Body

You might be feeling your baby really kick now! These kicks will be bigger and more defined than the popcorn popping, butterfly feeling of quickening that you've previously felt. Some moms see the first kicks as a confirmation that there really is a baby growing in there.

Your Developing Baby

Do you and your partner talk to your baby? Well, with the bones and nerves in her ears now developed enough to function, she can hear all sorts of sounds -- including blood coursing through the umbilical cord, your growling tummy and your heartbeat. In fact, sudden or loud noises may startle her. Go ahead and sing, tell stories or play music for your baby now.

Tip of the Week

Unfortunately, hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy. The varicose veins in your rectum can swell up and cause discomfort. If you have them, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams that might bring relief.

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Your Week 18 To-Do List

1. Consider signing up for newborn-care classes.

Week 18

An Inside Look

Take a unique look at Baby's development inside the womb this week.

Pregnant woman crossing off the days until the birth

Your Pregnancy Calendar

Organize your doctor's appointments, save your ultrasound photos, and more--all in one place!

Ask Parents About Week 18

We've got answers to your questions from experts and parents who've been there.

See All Questions or Ask Your Own

Everything in Pregnancy Week 18

More About Your Pregnancy in Week 18

Your Baby

Your Body

  • Boosting Your Energy At Work

    Try these healthy alternatives to a caffeine pick-me-up when you're feeling sluggish at work.

  • Breast Lumps

    You may notice more lumps than usual in your breasts while you're pregnant. Check with your doctor to make sure everything is okay.

  • Heart Palpitations

    Find out why your heart may be pounding a little harder and faster these days.

  • Leg Cramps

    Follow these tips to help combat those painful lower leg cramps you get at night.

Your Self

Diet & Exercise

  • Meal-Replacement Drinks

    Don't rely on meal-replacement drinks during pregnancy. You need nutrients from healthy foods for your baby.

  • Strength Training

    If you were a strength trainer before your pregnancy, talk to an experienced instructor about modifying your current regimen.

  • Stretching Abdominal Muscles

    Avoid abdominal stretches-they aren't safe for pregnant women.

Q & A

First Trimester

Second Trimester

Third Trimester