baby : your baby measures 5 to 5. 6 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 5. 25 ounces. the rapid growth spurt is tapering off but reflexes are kicking in. it can yawn stretch and make facial expressions even frown. taste buds are beginning to develop and can distinguish sweet from bitter tastes. the baby will suck if its lips are stroked and it can swallow and even get the hiccups. the retinas have become sensitive to light so if a bright light is shined on your abdomen baby will probably move to shield its eyes. mom-to-be : your uterus about the size of a cantaloupe can probably be felt just below your navel. you're most likely feeling the baby move by now. a mid-pregnancy ultrasound may be performed between now and 22 weeks to assess fetal growth and development and to verify the due date. if the baby is in the right position the ultrasound may even be able to determine whether it's a boy or a girl. your heart has to work 40 percent to 50 percent harder now to support your pregnancy. tip for the week : suggest that your partner go with you for the ultrasound. it's a chance to catch the first glimpse of your baby together as well as provide a snapshot to show friends and family later. sonograms still don't guarantee a healthy baby but they can provide reassurance and spot some problems.
what can i expect during week 18 of my pregnancy?