Pregnancy Week by Week/Week 18: Nerve Protection
Week 18: Nerve Protection
Your baby is undergoing important development this week. One of the key milestones is the formation of myelin, a protective insulation that wraps around the nerves. This myelin sheath is crucial for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system.
By this stage, your baby's ears, nose, and lips are fully formed and can be clearly seen on an ultrasound. For baby girls, the uterus and fallopian tubes are in place, while for baby boys, the genitals are visible. This week marks significant progress in your baby's physical features and nervous system. Your baby is now about the size of a bell pepper.
Your Body During Week 18
As your baby grows, you may notice an increased appetite and specific food cravings. Swelling of the feet and ankles, known as edema, is common, along with leg cramps and back pains caused by the growing uterus. These changes are normal but can be managed with proper care.
Hati Health Tips for Week 18
To support your health and well-being during this stage, consider the following tips from Hati Health:
- Relax and take it slowly to reduce stress.
- Have a support system to help you through the pregnancy journey.
- Eat a healthy amount of fiber to aid digestion.
- Include iron-rich foods in your diet to support your increased blood volume.
- Plan your maternity leave ahead of time.
- Join birth classes to prepare for labor and delivery.
- Book your ultrasounds conveniently using the Hati Health website.
Remember, this is a special time in your pregnancy journey. Taking care of yourself and staying informed will help you and your baby thrive. If you have any concerns, always consult your healthcare provider.
2nd Trimester Screening - Basic
Support your pregnancy journey with a basic care package designed for the 2nd trimester. 2nd Trimester Screening - Basic includes key diagnostic tests such as Complete Blood Count with Platelet Count, Routine Urinalysis, VLDL/RPR, HbsAg, and Pelvic Ultrasound.
2nd Trimester Screening - Comprehensive
Support your pregnancy journey with a comprehensive care package designed for the 2nd trimester. 2nd Trimester Screening - Comprehensive includes key diagnostic tests such as Complete Blood Count with Platelet Count, Congenital Scan with Cervical Length, and Pelvic Ultrasound with BPS.
OBGYN
Take charge of your reproductive health with an OB-GYN consult—your first step to expert care for pregnancy, periods, PCOS, menopause, and more.
Ultrasound (Pelvic) Non-Pregnant
A pelvic ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive scan that captures images of the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic area. It helps detect fibroids, cysts, and other abnormalities, and is useful for investigating pelvic pain, irregular periods, or fertility issues. For best results, schedule between days 5–10 of your menstrual cycle, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
