Source: bing.comCongratulations! You and your little one have made it to week 18. At this point, your baby is about the size of a sweet potato and weighs around 6 ounces. While you may not see a huge difference in your baby’s appearance from week 17 to 18, there are still plenty of developments happening behind the scenes.
Table of Contents
Physical Development
One of the most exciting developments in week 18 is that your baby’s ears are now in their final position on the sides of their head. Your little one can now hear your voice and other sounds around them more clearly. Their skin is also becoming thicker and more opaque as fat deposits start to form beneath the surface.
Your baby’s skeleton is also rapidly developing. Their bones are transforming from soft cartilage to hard bone tissue. Their arms and legs are now in proportion with their head and body, and they can move their limbs around with more control. You may even start to feel some of these movements as tiny flutters or kicks.
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is growing at an incredible rate during week 18. The cerebral cortex, which is responsible for memory, attention, perception, and thought, is starting to develop. Your little one’s brain is also producing billions of neurons and synapses, which are the connections between brain cells that allow for communication and learning.
At this stage, your baby is also developing the ability to experience emotions. They may start to show facial expressions like smiles, frowns, and grimaces. They can also respond to touch and other sensations.
Sensory Development
As we mentioned earlier, your baby’s ears are now in their final position and they can hear sounds more clearly. By week 18, your little one can also detect light and dark, even though their eyes are still closed. The optic nerve is developing rapidly, and soon your baby will be able to blink and open their eyes.
Your baby is also developing a sense of taste and smell. Studies have shown that babies in the womb can taste the flavors of the foods their mothers eat. They can also smell and recognize scents like their mother’s amniotic fluid and breast milk.
What You Can Do
While your baby is busy growing and developing, there are a few things you can do to support their growth and prepare for their arrival. Here are some tips:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Get plenty of rest and take breaks when you need to.
- Start thinking about your birth plan and discussing your options with your healthcare provider.
- Take some time to bond with your baby by talking, singing, or reading to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is my baby at 18 weeks?
At 18 weeks, your baby is about the size of a sweet potato and weighs around 6 ounces.
Can my baby hear me at 18 weeks?
Yes, your baby’s ears are now in their final position, and they can hear your voice and other sounds around them more clearly.
When can I start feeling my baby move?
You may start to feel some of your baby’s movements around week 18, but it’s also normal not to feel anything until around week 20.
Should I be worried if I don’t feel my baby move yet?
Not necessarily. Every pregnancy is different, and some women don’t feel their baby move until later in the pregnancy. However, if you’re concerned, speak with your healthcare provider.
What can I do to bond with my baby during pregnancy?
Talking, singing, and reading to your baby can help you bond with them during pregnancy. You can also try gentle exercises like prenatal yoga or meditation to connect with your little one.