Day 127 of 280, second trimester
You are 18 weeks and 1 day
As you near the halfway mark, you'll keep being amazed that there's a baby growing inside you.
153 days until your due date
The further along you are, the more attached and protective you're likely to feel toward your baby. What was once a tiny bundle of cells now looks like an almost fully formed baby, and you'll keep marveling that you and your partner made this baby and that it's all happening inside you.
Once you feel your baby move in the next few weeks, your attachment is likely to grow even stronger. You may have some worries at times, but try to relax and enjoy your pregnancy; it will be over before you know it.
Focus on
Health: It's all a blur
Water retention in pregnancy can affect your eyes. The lens and cornea can thicken and the fluid in the eyeball can increase, causing pressure and blurred vision. It usually clears up after the birth. Exercising to keep fluid moving and avoiding contact lenses can help. Tell your doctor if you have vision problems.
Ask a Doctor
I have a demanding career and have hardly had time to think about the baby. Will this stop us bonding?
Working full time during pregnancy doesn't have to harm your relationship with your baby. As your baby grows, you'll probably start bonding with your bump as you look forward to movements and perhaps talk to your baby. Plan enough maternity leave before your due date to give you time to prepare practically and emotionally, and to rest.
There's some evidence that a lot of stress in a mother can affect her baby's brain development, so make sure you have regular chances to relax. If your work is stressful, this may be a good time to rethink your priorities.
Explainer
Getting to know your baby
It's never too early for you and your partner to start getting to know your baby.
Appointments and key dates around now
- 20-week screening scanBetween 18 and 21 weeks
Read the full 18 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.