18 weeks pregnant

Your baby

Hearing, swallowing and sucking abilities continue developing while your baby moves their arms and legs. Movements are happening before every pregnant person can recognize them. Early sensations may be subtle, so the week you first notice movement can differ from someone else's, especially in a first pregnancy.

Your body

You might feel a flutter, bubbling or a light shifting sensation, or you may not be sure whether you have felt anything yet. Your growing bump can also affect balance and comfort. Avoid using this guide or another person's experience as a deadline for a particular sensation. Ask your clinician what to expect in your circumstances and when to contact them if you remain unsure.

This week

Getting to know early movements

Use the next visit to ask how you will learn your baby's movement pattern as pregnancy progresses. There is a difference between not yet recognizing early movement and noticing a reduction after a usual pattern has developed. If movements you normally feel slow down, stop or change, contact your maternity care team right away rather than waiting for a scheduled visit. You can also ask about your upcoming anatomy ultrasound and how to prepare. A scan and your own awareness of movement answer different questions about the pregnancy.