Day 132 of 280, second trimester
You are 18 weeks and 6 days
Around now you'll have another scan, and your baby will get a thorough health check.
148 days until your due date
Between 18 and 20 weeks, most practices and hospitals offer a detailed "anatomy" scan to check your baby's overall development and examine the organs and body systems for signs of problems. For most parents, it's reassurance that everything is going well.
The scan can take a while because of all the detailed measurements and checks. The sonographer can only do some checks when the baby is in the right position, which can be a challenge when the baby is moving a lot. If the position makes it difficult, you may be asked to walk around for a bit and come back, or return in a week or two.
Good to know
Exercising in water
Water is a great place to work out in pregnancy: it supports your belly and adds resistance, helping you stay fit. When standing, the water should be just above your waist; any deeper and you won't be stable, any shallower and you won't get enough support.
Look for pregnancy water aerobics classes at your local gym, or try these simple exercises yourself:
- Running on the spot: bring your knees up and pump your arms back and forth. Run for 3–4 minutes if you can, stopping if you feel tired. It's good for your heart and tones your legs and arms.
- Bicycle: stand with a float under each arm, lean back slightly, and move your legs in front of you as if pedaling. Keep going for 3–4 minutes if you can, stopping if you feel tired. It keeps you fit, tones your legs, and strengthens your back and arms.
- Arm exercises: stand with feet apart and knees slightly bent, and crouch so your shoulders are underwater. Lift your arms from your sides to shoulder height and back down, then pull them down through the water toward you and push up as hard as you can. This tones and strengthens your arms, back, and abdomen.
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.