18 Weeks Pregnant

The “honeymoon” phase may be coming to an end at 18 weeks pregnant, but it isn’t over yet. Enjoy every moment of your second trimester all the way to the end. Your energy will return within a few weeks after giving birth, but it may not notice it because the baby will be using it up as fast as it is produced.

MOM

You will feel your uterus under your belly button. You have probably gained anywhere from 10 pounds to 15 pounds. Your uterus is about the size of a melon at 18 weeks pregnant. It probably feels bigger as the pressure grows on your bladder or the baby presses up against a nerve. Lying on your left side will relieve pressure on your veins. This will be increasingly helpful, as you get farther along and more uncomfortable.

If there is a swimming pool available, it will provide a comfortable place to exercise and provide relief to normal discomforts of pregnancy.

You may notice your nipples are leaking small amounts of fluid, which is called colostrum. This is a sign that your breasts are developing so you can feed your baby. Many women do not notice any fluid during pregnancy but will find colostrum appears when their baby is born.

Between the baby moving, indigestion, and gas pains there is a lot of activity going on in your belly. You will be just fine.

BABY

Your baby s now between 5 and 6 inches long and hovering around 5 ounces now that you are 18 weeks pregnant. This makes your baby about the size of a can of soup.

Myelin is being produced. It is the protective covering for the nerves. An ultrasound can detect any heart abnormalities. It is rare, but if there are any, there are preparations that can be made so that the baby has all the medical support he or she will need.

Your baby’s gentiles will now be distinguishable, though may not be easy to see during an ultra sound if your baby gets camera shy. An ultrasound may be done to verify the due date. It is not the only way to determine a due date though and couples still choose to skip the ultra sounds and enjoy the surprise of the gender at birth, knowing it is their baby and no matter what, will love their baby with all their heart.

LIFE

Maintain a stress free environment as much as possible. Stress can have a devastating affect on pregnancy and childbirth. Some studies that suggest that stress can contribute to complications during pregnancy, including preterm labor. Some studies have also indicated that high levels of stress particularly between weeks 18 and 20 can result in higher levels of a hormone called corticotropin-releasing hormone has been linked to preterm labor. There is the possibility that this hormone may trigger your body to release prostaglandins, which may result in contractions. So if you can’t eliminate stress change the way that you react to it. Try the following:
                                                                            

•    Relaxation techniques like deep breathing                   
•     Pamper yourself by getting a relaxing facial treatment   
•    Take a break with a leisurely walk or warm bath
•    Keep things in perspective
•    Allow your faith to increase your level of peace
•    Utilize the support of friends and family
•    Have a nice massage, given by your partner

You have a few more weeks to be energetic enough for romantic dinners with your partner and playing in the park with your children. It is a good time to make sure you catch up and get ahead at work. If possible do what you get to get ahead of your tasks and workload.

19 Weeks Pregnant

17 Weeks Pregnant

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