Week 18: Ready for a close-up
You’re 18 weeks pregnant — about 22 weeks to go. Your baby is roughly the size of a bell pepper.
Size of
a bell pepper
Length
14.2 cm
5.6 in · crown to rump
Weight
190 g
6.7 oz
Your baby this week
Your baby is yawning, hiccupping and getting more active. A protective coating called myelin is forming around the nerves, and the ears now stick out from the head.
Your body & how you might feel
Your anatomy scan — a detailed ultrasound — usually happens between now and week 22. It checks growth and development and can often reveal the sex if you want to know.
Common symptoms at week 18
- Strong baby movements
- Leg cramps
- Swelling
- Lower-back pain
This week’s tip: Sleeping on your side, ideally the left, improves blood flow to your baby — a pillow between your knees helps a lot.
A gentle reminder: This is an estimate, not medical advice. Dates and figures are general guidance — every pregnancy is different. Your healthcare provider’s assessment, especially from an early ultrasound, always takes priority. Always speak with your provider about your pregnancy.
Week 18 FAQs
How big is the baby at 18 weeks?
At 18 weeks pregnant, your baby is roughly the size of a bell pepper, about 14.2 cm (5.6 in) long and around 190 g. These are typical averages — every baby grows at its own pace.
How many months is 18 weeks pregnant?
18 weeks pregnant is about 4 months, in the second trimester, with about 22 weeks to go until your due date.
What are common symptoms at 18 weeks?
Common experiences around week 18 include strong baby movements, leg cramps, swelling, lower-back pain. Symptoms vary widely — contact your provider if anything worries you.