Pregnancy Week 18

You’re just about 50% through your pregnancy at 18 weeks pregnant. If you were experiencing morning sickness, it should be just about gone and you'll be feeling better. At this particular point of your pregnancy you’ll probably be feeling quite energetic.

Many pregnant women are still feeling quite good at this point in the pregnancy. They are enjoying showing off the pregnancy, and they aren't too uncomfortable yet. Your belly should be showing to some extent now and you may need to switch to maternity clothes if you haven't done so yet.

By 18 weeks pregnant you’ll be experiencing the baby’s movements as small kicks and fluttering movements. These will get stronger as your pregnancy progresses. You can use this as experience in making an assessment of your baby’s general wellbeing by the amount of movements you experience.

As long as you are eating healthy at 18 weeks pregnant, try not to obsess about your weight. Most women may have put on about nine or ten pounds or so. The better your food choices are, the less excess weight you'll gain.

Every calorie should be made to count as you are making a new person to bring into the world! Take it easy on high sugar content desserts and be sure to eat fruit, vegetables and protein. Keep well hydrated by drinking enough water as contractions may result if you are dehydrated.

It is better to eat several small meals per day than three large ones. You'll maintain a good blood sugar level without overeating. This strategy also works well as baby grows larger and your stomach gets squeezed by your growing uterus.

Exercise is important in staying healthy. Even if you only take a walk around the block or the mall a few times a week, you'll feel better and your labor will go easier than if you didn't exercise.

You may also become aware that at about 18 weeks pregnant it is harder to be comfortable when sleeping. You may need to experiment with different sleeping positions. Extra pillows or a body pillow made for pregnant woman may be very helpful.

Relish this time of your pregnancy and the changes your body is experiencing. It’s only for a short time so you may as well enjoy it as best you can. Visit http://www.healthyclicks.org for articles on pregnancy many other health issues.