Week 18: Baby Is Yawning

Your baby has become a little acrobat! This week your baby is yawning, hiccuping, stretching, and reaching inside your womb. These movements are important for muscle development. Your baby is now about 14 cm long (crown to rump) and weighs around 190 grams — about the size of a bell pepper.

If this is your second or third pregnancy, you may already be feeling the first gentle kicks. For first-time parents, it is normal to feel the first movements between weeks 18 and 22. One of pregnancy's most magical moments awaits!

The anatomy scan is usually performed between weeks 17 and 19. This is a voluntary examination where your baby's organs are thoroughly checked. Many choose to find out the sex at this scan.

Baby's Development

Active movement: Your baby is yawning, hiccuping, stretching, and kicking enthusiastically. This is important training for muscles and joints
Myelin forming: Nerve cells are getting a protective layer of myelin, which makes nerve signals travel faster through the body. This process continues for several years after birth
Sex organs: In girls, the uterus and fallopian tubes are now fully developed. In boys, testosterone is being produced and the testes are beginning to develop
Digestive system: Your baby is swallowing amniotic fluid and exercising the digestive system. Meconium (the first bowel movement) is accumulating in the intestine
Eyes: The eyes are sensitive to light, even though the eyelids are still closed. The retina is developing rapidly
Skin: Vernix caseosa (a protective waxy coating) is covering the skin and protecting it from the amniotic fluid
Hearing clearer: Your baby is perceiving sounds increasingly well and can react to sudden loud noises
Size: The fetus is about 14 cm long (crown to rump) and weighs around 190 grams

Myelination — The Nervous System's Insulation

Myelin is a fat layer that wraps around the long processes (axons) of nerve cells. It functions like insulation on an electrical wire — it makes nerve signals travel much faster and more efficiently. Without myelin, signals would move slowly and in an uncoordinated manner.

The myelination that begins now at week 18 is a long-term process that continues until a person is in their twenties. It is one of the reasons why omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA) are so important for brain development. According to ACOG and WHO, pregnant people should eat oily fish 2–3 times per week to ensure adequate DHA intake. Good sources are salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout.

Your Body

First kicks: Many feel the first movements between weeks 16 and 22. It can feel like bubbling, butterflies, or a gentle tickling sensation in the abdomen
Bump growing: The uterus is about the size of a melon, and the bump is visible to others
Dizziness: Lower blood pressure is common in the second trimester and can cause dizziness, especially when you stand up quickly
Leg cramps: Cramps in the legs at night are common and can be caused by changed blood flow or magnesium deficiency
Back pain: The growing bump changes your centre of gravity and puts strain on your back
Swelling: Mild swelling in the legs towards the end of the day is normal due to increased fluid volume
Heartburn: The uterus is pressing upward against the stomach, which can cause acid reflux
Weight gaining steadily: You can expect a steady weight gain of about 0.5 kg per week in the second trimester

The First Kicks

Feeling your baby's movements for the first time is one of pregnancy's most magical moments. At week 18, movements are often described as:

A bubbling sensation, like gas bubbles in the abdomen
Butterflies fluttering around
A gentle tickling or tingling feeling
Soft tapping or light puffs
Light twitching in the lower abdomen

Do not worry if you cannot feel anything yet — especially if this is your first pregnancy. A placenta at the front (anterior placenta) can make movements harder to feel. Movements are often most noticeable when you are resting and still, for example in the evening when lying down.

Tips for feeling the first kicks:

Lie down and be still — movements are felt best when resting
After a meal, your baby is often more active
Place your hands gently on your lower abdomen
Be patient — it can take time to distinguish fetal movements from bowel activity

Good to Know

Around weeks 17–20, the anatomy scan is offered. This is a voluntary examination where your midwife or sonographer checks that your baby is developing normally, measures the amount of amniotic fluid, and looks at the placental position. Many choose to find out the sex — but it is entirely up to you.

Iron is especially important now as blood volume is increasing significantly. Good iron sources are red meat, beans, lentils, and fortified bread. Vitamin C from peppers or oranges helps the body absorb iron. Coffee and tea slow down iron absorption — wait at least 30 minutes after iron-rich meals.

If you experience leg cramps at night, it can help to gently stretch the calf muscles before bedtime and drink enough water throughout the day. Magnesium deficiency can contribute to cramps — talk to your midwife if you think you might need a supplement.

Prenatal appointments continue about every 4 weeks in the second trimester. At each appointment, blood pressure, urine, weight, and fundal height are checked. These are good opportunities to ask your midwife questions.

The Anatomy Scan in Detail

If you have not had the anatomy scan yet, it is probably just around the corner. This is one of the most important prenatal checks:

What Is Examined?

Brain and head: Size, symmetry, and development of brain structures
Heart: The four chambers, valves, and blood flow are thoroughly checked
Spine: Complete review of all vertebrae
Kidneys and bladder: Function and size
Stomach and bowel: Normal position and function
Arms, legs, and joints: Bone length and movement
Placenta position: Important for identifying a low-lying placenta
Amniotic fluid volume: Too much or too little may require follow-up
Blood flow in the umbilical cord: Assessed with Doppler ultrasound

Practical Information

Duration: 20–30 minutes, sometimes longer if your baby is lying awkwardly
Preparation: Partly full bladder, loose-fitting clothes
Partner: Welcome to come — it is a special experience
Sex: Voluntary — let the sonographer know
Result: The vast majority (about 97%) receive completely reassuring results

Tips for the Scan Appointment

Bring a list of questions
Ask for a printout of the ultrasound image as a keepsake
Be prepared that your baby may be lying in a way that not everything is visible — it may mean you need to come back
Do not hesitate to ask questions during the scan — the sonographer is used to it

Prenatal Appointments in the Second Trimester

According to ACOG and the NHS, pregnant people typically have prenatal appointments about every 4 weeks in the second trimester. Here is an overview of what is checked:

At Each Appointment

Blood pressure: To detect early signs of pre-eclampsia
Urine test: Checks for protein (sign of pre-eclampsia) and sugar (sign of gestational diabetes)
Weight: Follows the weight gain curve
Fundal height: Measurement from pubic bone to the top of the uterus to follow your baby's growth
Listening to heartbeat: Confirms your baby's heart is beating normally

Upcoming Appointments

Week 24: Routine prenatal appointment
Week 28: Appointment with blood tests, glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes
Week 32: Appointment, baby's position assessed

Nutrition and Heartburn

Heartburn and acid reflux affect up to 80% of pregnant people from the second trimester:

What Causes It?

The hormone progesterone relaxes the sphincter between the stomach and oesophagus. At the same time, the growing uterus presses upward against the stomach. The result is that stomach acid more easily flows up into the oesophagus.

What Helps?

Eat many small meals rather than a few large ones
Avoid strongly spiced, fatty, and fried food
Do not lie down straight after eating — wait at least 2 hours
Elevate the head of your bed by 10–15 cm
Drink milk or eat yoghurt — the calcium neutralises stomach acid
Avoid carbonated drinks and citrus fruits if they trigger symptoms
Talk to your midwife about safe antacids (calcium carbonate is generally safe)

Leg Cramps and Magnesium Deficiency

Leg cramps are one of the most common complaints in pregnancy and affect especially many people in the second trimester. They often occur at night and can be very painful.

Possible Causes

Changed blood flow in the legs
Magnesium deficiency
Phosphate imbalance
Increased body weight and strain on the legs
Dehydration

Prevention and Relief

Stretch calf muscles: Stand on tiptoes and slowly lower your heels — do this 10 times before bedtime
Magnesium: Talk to your midwife about magnesium supplements. Good food sources are bananas, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, and whole grain products
Drink enough water: At least 1.5–2 litres throughout the day
Stay active: Daily walks and gentle leg stretching
When a cramp comes: Flex your foot upward toward your shin, gently stretch the leg, and massage the sore area

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular exercise provides many benefits during pregnancy. According to ACOG, pregnant people should be physically active for at least 150 minutes per week at moderate intensity:

Walking: 30 minutes daily at moderate pace
Swimming: Excellent for back and joints — the water supports your weight
Prenatal yoga: Strengthens and stretches the body, practises breathing exercises that are useful during birth
Kegel exercises: Continue daily — they prepare your body for birth and prevent urinary leakage
Adapted strength training: Strengthen back, legs, and pelvic floor with exercises tailored for pregnant people

Remember to avoid exercising while lying flat on your back after week 16, and listen to your body. You should be able to hold a conversation while exercising.

Finding Out the Sex

Many couples choose to find out their baby's sex at the anatomy scan. Some choose to find out and keep it to themselves, share it with close family, or organise a gender reveal.

Advantages of Finding Out the Sex

Can make the pregnancy feel more concrete and personal
Easier to choose names and plan the nursery
Many experience stronger attachment to the baby

Advantages of Keeping It a Surprise

An extra surprise at birth
Avoids pressure about sex-specific equipment
Can feel more magical

Important to Remember

Whatever you choose, it is important that both partners agree. Let the sonographer know clearly whether you want to know or not. Sometimes your baby is hiding and the sex cannot be determined — you may then be able to try again at the next scan.

Practical Preparations

Week 18 is a good time to start practical preparations while energy is good and the bump is not too large:

Nursery

Start thinking about furnishing and decorating
Choose a cot, mattress, and storage
Make a list of what you need

Baby Equipment

Pram and car seat are the most important investments
Clothes in newborn size and 0–3 months
Nappies and changing supplies
Baby cot with a firm mattress

Finances

Review the budget for upcoming expenses
Find out whether your employer pays full salary during parental leave
Start saving a little extra if possible

For Partners

Place your hand on the bump and wait patiently — you may soon feel the first movements from outside (usually from weeks 22–26)
Come to the anatomy scan and see your baby together for the first time. It is a special experience
Help with practical things like housework and grocery shopping
Start discussing parental leave and how you would like to divide it
Be patient with mood swings and physical complaints — your support means a lot

Tips for Week 18

Stand up slowly: Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid dizziness
Write a diary: Start noting when you feel movements — it becomes a lovely memory
Prepare for the scan: Write down questions you want to ask your midwife. Keep track of important dates with our due date calculator
Stretch your legs: Gently stretch calf muscles before bedtime to prevent cramps
Eat iron-rich food: Combined with vitamin C for best absorption
Kegel exercises: Continue with daily pelvic floor exercises
Follow the pregnancy timeline: Keep up to date with what is happening week by week

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor or midwife if you experience:

Constant dizziness that does not resolve with rest
Heart palpitations or chest pain
Vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain or cramps that do not resolve
Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
Severe swelling in face or hands
Watery discharge that may indicate amniotic fluid leaking
Persistent headache with visual disturbances

Parental Leave — Time to Plan

Week 18 is a good time to start thinking about parental leave:

What to Think About Now

Talk to your employer about planning your leave
Find out whether your employer pays full salary beyond the statutory minimum
Discuss with your partner how you would like to divide leave
Check the specific parental leave rules in your country
Find out when you need to submit your leave application

Application Timing

Most countries require you to notify your employer several weeks or months in advance of when your leave will start. Check the rules for your country and employer — the sooner you start planning, the better.

Mental Health and Preparation

After seeing your baby on the anatomy scan, many pregnant people feel stronger attachment and more concrete thoughts about parenthood. That is entirely normal:

Common Thoughts at Week 18

Increased attachment to your baby after seeing them on the scan
Concrete thoughts about birth and the postnatal period
Worry about whether everything is normal with your baby
Joy at feeling the first movements

What Can Help

Share thoughts and feelings with your partner
Talk with friends who have children
Write a diary
Consider a childbirth preparation class
Contact your midwife if you have persistent worry or anxiety

Did You Know?

Your baby hiccups often: Hiccupping in the fetus is a sign that the diaphragm is exercising. Some pregnant people can actually feel the hiccupping as small, rhythmic twitches in their abdomen. It is completely harmless and means the nervous system is developing normally
Meconium is accumulating: Your baby's first bowel movement, called meconium, is beginning to accumulate in the intestine now. It is a dark, sticky mass consisting of amniotic fluid, mucus, and skin cells. It usually passes in the first 24 hours after birth
Girls already have all their eggs: If you are carrying a girl, she now has about 6 million egg cells in her ovaries. At birth this is reduced to about 1 million, and at puberty to about 300,000. This means that half the genes of your future grandchildren are already determined!
Your baby yawns up to 6 times an hour: The yawning has nothing to do with the baby being tired. Researchers think it is linked to the development of the jaw muscles and brain activity. Yawning gradually decreases towards the end of pregnancy
Vernix protects the skin: The whitish coating (vernix caseosa) now covering the skin works as moisturiser and protects against the salty amniotic fluid. Babies born around full term may have remnants of vernix on their bodies — this is completely normal and does not need to be washed off immediately

Frequently Asked Questions About Week 18

When can my partner feel the kicks from outside?

Most partners can feel kicks from outside around weeks 22–26, but it varies. At week 18, the movements are still quite weak and difficult to feel from outside the abdomen. Be patient — it is coming! Place your hand gently on the abdomen during quiet moments, especially in the evenings when your baby is often most active.

What should I do about leg cramps at night?

Gently stretch your calf muscles before bedtime by standing on your tiptoes and slowly lowering your heels. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day (at least 1.5–2 litres). Magnesium can help — talk to your midwife about supplements. When a cramp comes, flex your foot upward towards your shin for quick relief. Bananas, nuts, and dark chocolate are good sources of magnesium.

Is dizziness dangerous for my baby?

Dizziness in pregnancy is usually caused by lower blood pressure and is not dangerous for your baby. Stand up slowly, eat regularly to keep blood sugar stable, and drink plenty of water. Contact your doctor if dizziness is severe, persistent, or if you faint — it may indicate low blood sugar, anaemia, or other conditions that should be investigated.

Can I find out the sex at the anatomy scan?

Yes, at the anatomy scan between weeks 17 and 20, the sonographer can often see your baby's sex. It depends on your baby's position — sometimes your baby is hiding. It is entirely voluntary whether you want to know, and you can say in advance whether you want it kept secret. Let the sonographer know clearly so it does not get accidentally revealed.

What does it mean if the placenta is at the front (anterior placenta)?

An anterior placenta is a completely normal variation where the placenta has attached to the front wall of the uterus, between your baby and your abdomen. It is harmless for both mother and baby, but means you may feel movements later than others, because the placenta cushions the kicks. Most people with an anterior placenta feel clear kicks from weeks 22–24. Placental position does not affect your baby's development.

Is it normal to have heartburn at week 18?

Yes, heartburn affects up to 80% of pregnant people and can start from the second trimester. It is caused by the hormone progesterone relaxing the sphincter between the oesophagus and stomach, and the uterus pressing upward. Eat small, frequent meals, avoid fatty and spicy food, and do not lie down straight after eating. Talk to your midwife about safe antacids if it is very uncomfortable.

Next week: Your baby gets a protective layer on the skin, and fingerprints are completely unique!