Pregnancy: May 08 Babies Community

Week 18

This week, your baby is concentrating on increasing in size. As not a lot of new major developments are happening, here are some helpful hints along with the usual updates.

What Is Happening To Your Body

Sleeping may be more difficult as your body grows. Try propping yourself up with pillows to help you find a more comfortable sleeping position. You can also try doing pelvic tilts before bed and always urinate before lying down.

Don’t worry if your vaginal discharge (usually a whitish color) is increasing as pregnancy continues. The increase is nothing to worry about and is completely normal.

You may also be getting light-headed, dizzy, or even faint. This is also normal and the only cause for concern is if it happens more than several times a day or severely (passing out). This is usually caused from moving from one position to another too quickly. The best thing to do is to move slowly when changing positions.

As you’re preparing for life with the baby, an important choice is to select a good pediatrician. This is a good week to start scheduling visits to meet the doctors to discuss their practice and procedures. You should be aware of the doctor’s appointment availability, immunization scheduling, emergency situations, and what insurance they accept. It’s important to feel comfortable with your doctor so do your homework and make an educated decision.

What Is Happening To Your Baby

Your baby is 5.59 inches (14.2 cm) in total length and weighs about 6.7 ounces (190 g).

Your baby’s ears are approaching their final position. Your baby’s eyes are also developing as they’re starting to face forward and their retinas may be able to detect light.

Your baby’s bones will continue to harden and the pads for his fingers and toes are formed. They will gain the characteristic swirls and creases that form finger and toe prints.
The meconium (an early fecal waste matter) will start to be collected in the intestines. If the baby is a boy, the prostate will begin developing as well.

The baby’s heart is starting to build up muscle and is starting to pump out about 25 to 30 quarts of blood a day.

 What Is Happening This Week?