Light-headedness & Dizzy Spells At 18 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby is now around 14cm long and growing and developing at a rapid rate. They now have a daily routine and sleeping habit.

If your baby is a boy, his genitals are becoming much more distinct and easier to see on an ultrasound. A unique set of fingerprints is starting to form on their fingers and toes, and their grip is becoming firmer.

Light-headedness is common at this stage. Your blood volume has increased considerably and your heart is working 40-50% harder to circulate the extra blood required to nourish you both. Meanwhile, your growing uterus is putting pressure on blood vessels, which can leave you feeling faint.

Dizzy spells are a signal to slow down and ensure you are getting the correct nutrition. If you experience persistent dizziness or light-headedness – or if you even actually faint – it’s important to seek assistance from your healthcare professional or midwife straight away.

Frequent rest, a healthy diet and eating regular small amounts during the day will help keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Take extra care with your body: when rising from chairs and moving around, be gentle and steady. For extra energy, stick with the slow-release nutrients found in oats, fruit and vegetables as opposed to foods that give a quick sugar hit.

Please note: These pregnancy week-by-week articles, are meant to give you a general sense of the growth and development going on within you. However, it’s important to remember that every baby develops differently, even during pregnancy.