18 Weeks Pregnant

At 18 weeks, the baby may begin to hear sounds. The anomaly scan window starts this week.
Baby is about the size ofA bell pepper
LengthAbout 14.2 cm
WeightAbout 190 g
Week 18 of 40, second trimester22 weeks to go

Your baby at 18 weeks

The ears are now in their final position and the baby may begin to hear sounds, such as your heartbeat and voice.

Your body at 18 weeks

Backache is common as your posture changes. You may also feel dizzy at times, especially when standing for long periods.

Your checklist this week

  • Your anomaly scan is usually done between 18 and 21 weeks. It checks the baby’s organs, growth and the placenta.
  • Bend your knees when you lift, and avoid lifting heavy things.
  • Talk or sing to your baby if you would like to.

Not sure which week you are in?

Use our Due Date Calculator or Pregnancy Week Calculator to find out exactly how far along you are.

Your baby this week

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When to call your doctor

  • Bleeding from your vagina
  • Severe pain in your tummy
  • A bad headache, blurred vision or sudden swelling
  • Fluid leaking from your vagina
  • Fever, or pain when you pass urine
  • Later in pregnancy, your baby moving less than usual

In an emergency, call your local emergency number.

Based on ACOG and NHS guidance. Sizes are averages: every baby grows at its own pace.