Week 18

My Baby This Week

By this time, all major areas of your baby’s brain would be identifiable. The part of his brain that controls specific functions (called the cortical layers), will begin to form.

The bones of the inner ear and the nerve endings from the brain have developed enough so that your baby will hear sounds like your heartbeat and blood gushing through the umbilical cord. Very soon, your baby will be able to respond to music and other sounds. It's time to fine-tune your singing and storytelling skills!

You should also be careful not to make loud noises, as it may even startle your baby!

What’s Happening To My Body?

Your waistline will start increasing significantly. You should wear proper maternity clothes, designed not to put too much pressure on your belly.

If you take your blood pressure reading, you might find it lower than normal. This is because your cardiovascular system undergoes changes during the second trimester. You should therefore avoid getting up suddenly, or you might feel dizzy or faint.

From now onwards, when you sleep, you should lie on your side. If you lie on your back, your uterus will compress the pelvic veins, including the inferior vena cava (a major vein that sends blood from the lower half of your body to the heart). You can prevent this by lying on your side. If this puts a strain on your backbone, try placing a rolled tower under the side of your belly, or use the wedged-shaped pillow sold at maternity stores, such as Mothercare.