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Week 22: 18 weeks to go!

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Welcome back! You have just 18 weeks left to go...

Your baby's progress:

  • Your baby measures about 19cm crown to rump and 27cm from head to toe.
  • The brain is growing rapidly.
  • Your baby's eyelids and eyebrows have formed.
  • Your baby is getting fat on those bones.
  • In boys, the testes are starting to descend from the pelvis to the scrotum.
  • Your baby can hear sounds.

Your progress:

  • You may feel more emotionally stable and in control.
  • Some women enjoy sex more because of the increase in blood flow to the clitoris and increased vaginal lubrication.
  • You’re probably gaining weight more steadily now. 

What to do:

  • During the second trimester you will feel better than in the other trimesters. Go away with your partner to enjoy a carefree holiday. 
  • If you're worried about having sex, read up on or speak to your doctor about your concerns.
  • Have a foetal anomaly scan.

Good to know:

  • Foods containing artificial sweetners (in small amounts) are usually safe. Some studies suggest that saccharin has detrimental effects on your baby's development. So, use sparingly. 

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