Pregnancy Calendar - Week 18

Week 18

Your baby will now be about 20 cm in length and about 7 ounces in weight. The bones are still hardening. Finger prints will begin forming shortly, as the finger and toe pads are now formed. The bones of the inner ear and the nerve endings from the brain have developed enough so that your baby will hear sounds such as your heartbeat and blood moving through the umbilical cord. He or she may even be startled by loud noises. Your baby's eyes are developing, too-the retinas may be able to detect the beam of a flashlight if you hold it to your uterus. Because she is able to swallow, your baby may glog down up to a liter of amniotic fluid throughout the day.

Sleeping may become uncomfortable these days. You will want to try using pillows to prop yourself up and to help find a comfortable sleeping position. This week is a good week to begin your search for a pediatrician or other health care provider for your child. Schedule visits to meet with doctors. You need to discuss issues such as appointment availability, immunization scheduling and under what circumstances an emergency call should be made.