Week 18: Baby Can Stretch, Hiccup, And Hear Everything You Say 

It’s pregnancy week 18, and here’s what’s going on…

MIND

Wild, intense dreams are a hallmark of the second trimester — they’re more frequent and vivid than your usual dreams, often super bizarre and extremely memorable. No one knows why this is, so just enjoy the show (and hope for some of the super sexy variety – RAWR)!

BODY

The biggest news this month is that you’ll probably get an ultrasound, during which you can find out the baby’s sex! Assuming the baby cooperates and shows you the goods, that is, and assuming you even want to know the sex. Most parents opt to find out — whether it’s because they can’t contain their curiosity, want to narrow the pool of possible names, or to help make gender-specific purchases ahead of time. But plenty of moms would rather wait; just make sure to tell the ultrasound tech where you stand!

BABY

You’re probably feeling the baby move, and shit don’t get more real than that. The kicks will get bigger and easier to distinguish from random stomach gurgles in the coming days — it’s always exciting to get regular reminders that there is a real person inside there!

Your baby can yawn, stretch, frown, hiccup and cover their eyes if a bright light shines on your belly. They can also hear you, and frankly have no option but to listen (a trait you’ll wish was still true in the toddler and teen years).

NEST

Women usually don’t have baby showers until their third trimester, but it’s a good time to start making casual plans. Pick some low-drama friends or relatives to make the arrangements. Pick a venue and a date. Baby showers are a great way to get swag and to feel loved when the pregnancy is at its toughest.