You at 18 Weeks Pregnant: Your Body and Mind
Visualizing the first year of parenting—plus, "momfluencer" advice.
In This Article
Let's talk: parenting data
If you were observing your body like a scientist this week, you might notice that you’re getting dizzy when standing (thanks, lower blood pressure), linea nigra is visible on your stomach (researchers still find its cause a mystery) and you’re averaging six hours of sleep per night (pesky discomfort). Are these kinds of observations fascinating to you? Then you might like one research specialist’s findings after she tracked every detail of her first 12 months of motherhood. She took tabs on sleep, nursing and pumping sessions, days her daughter had to stay home from daycare and more. Here’s what she learned, to help you prepare→
Your top questions, answered
🐡 Body Talk: Are there tricks for reducing swelling? Learn more→
🦷 Dos and Don’ts: Can I get a dental x-ray while pregnant? Learn more→
💆♀️ Pampering: How is prenatal massage different than traditional? Learn more→
🌅 Deep Breaths: What’s a good morning meditation? Learn more→
In her words
"I've conquered a lot of things...blood clots in my lungs — twice...knee and foot surgeries...winning Grand Slams being down match point...to name just a few, but I found out by far the hardest is figuring out a stroller!" — Serena Williams
More to read at 18 weeks pregnant
📱 How social media can impact new motherhood If you’re highly prone to comparison, staying away from “momfluencers” may be better for you than you think, according to a study. (We love these tips for finding truly helpful Instagram and TikTok accounts i.e. mute literally anyone who doesn’t have a sense of humor about parenthood). More on Motherly→
Social spotlight
You can make your own rules when it comes to the big reveal.
