Second Trimester
Week 18: The anatomy scan (20-week scan) is approaching — the most detailed view yet.
Here's everything happening with your baby and your body this week.
Your baby is the size of a
Bell pepper
Length
5.6 in
Weight
217 g
Week
18 / 40
💡 Expert tip
The anatomy scan (typically at 18–22 weeks) checks all major organs and structures. Write your questions down beforehand.
🌱 Baby's development this week
- Ears now in final position — baby can hear clearly
- Baby yawning and stretching regularly
- Unique fingerprints now complete
- Myelin sheath forming around nerve fibers
Science fact
By 18 weeks, babies can hear sounds from outside the womb — initially as muffled vibrations. By 24 weeks, hearing is sophisticated enough to recognize their mother
🤰 Your symptoms this week
Baby kicks starting to be more distinctive
not just flutters
Swollen feet and ankles beginning
elevate when sitting, stay hydrated
Dizziness when standing suddenly
blood pressure changes; sit up slowly
💛 Changes in your body
- Kicks becoming stronger and more regular
- Possible leg cramps at night from blood flow changes
- Dizziness if lying on back — avoid supine position
- Some women notice nasal congestion worsening
💙 Mental health this week
Many women report
🥗 Nutrition focus
- Iron needs are highest in second and third trimester — 27mg/day minimum
- Eat a rainbow: different colored vegetables provide different antioxidants for fetal protection
- Limit caffeine to 200mg/day maximum — one coffee or two teas
📅 Appointment / test
Anatomy scan at 18–22 weeks: the most comprehensive view of baby
✅ This week's checklist
Write down questions for anatomy scan — what you want to check, whether to find out sex
Begin researching infant feeding (breastfeeding classes, lactation consultants)
Invest in a good pregnancy pillow for better sleep from here on
Track your pregnancy week by week
Interactive guide · 40 weeks · Fruit size visualizations · Personalized tips
Open Week 18 in Interactive Guide → →