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Congratulations! At 17 weeks, you’re well into your second trimester and have twenty-three weeks to go. Your baby is still growing and developing a bit of fat to keep them warm this week.
It is time you start to discuss with your partner and decide if you want to find out the gender of your baby or not. In just a little time, you can find out your baby’s gender through an ultrasound. Can you guess how big your baby is this week? Don’t worry; you’ll find out soon.
This week, the baby’s hearing is improving significantly. His ears are nearly fully formed, and he is starting to hear your voice.
Your one-of-a-kind baby has acquired unique fingerprints on those tiny fingertips and toes.
Fat stores are forming under your little one’s skin, which will provide energy and help keep your baby warm after birth.
This week, the baby’s hearing is improving significantly. His ears are nearly fully formed, and he is starting to hear your voice.
Your one-of-a-kind baby has acquired unique fingerprints on those tiny fingertips and toes.
Fat stores are forming under your little one’s skin, which will provide energy and help keep your baby warm after birth.
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby’s umbilical cord is becoming longer, thicker, and stronger, ensuring your baby receives all the blood, oxygen, and nutrients they need. Meanwhile, your baby’s sense of hearing is advancing as the ears have fully developed and settled into their final positions.
This week also marks the beginning of fat tissue development, known as adipose tissue. This fat will help fill out your baby’s delicate features and is crucial for regulating body temperature and metabolism, preparing your baby for life outside the womb.
Your tiny baby is starting to toughen as their skeleton, initially made of cartilage, is now transforming into bone. As your baby’s bones develop, you must get enough vitamin D to prevent conditions like rickets, which can cause bone deformities and weakness. Pregnant women are advised to take a daily supplement of 10mg of vitamin D, and it’s beneficial to get some sunshine, though this can be challenging during winter.
Your baby measures about 5.12 inches from head to toe, weighs around 140g (like a pomegranate), and rapidly gains weight. This week, the unique patterns on their fingers and toes are forming, creating the fingerprints they will have for life, even in identical twins who share the same DNA.
Their fingernails and toenails are beginning to grow, and your baby can now open and close their mouth, react to loud noises, and even move their eyes, although their eyelids remain closed for now.
At 17 weeks pregnant, your growing abdomen causes your other organs to shift to make room for your expanding uterus and baby. The top of your uterus is becoming more rounded and extending upward. This growth causes your uterus to push your intestines up and out towards the sides of your abdomen.
Most women find it easier to feel their uterus while standing, as it can be quite challenging to locate when lying down because it falls back towards the spine.
You might start feeling your baby move, which can feel like bubbles in your tummy, a butterfly fluttering, or even a rolling sensation. These movements will become more noticeable as your baby grows, but for now, you might mistake them for digestive activity.
Your baby is more likely to move after you’ve eaten when listening to loud music (perhaps they’re dancing along) when you talk or rub your bump, and when you’re relaxing without distractions.
You may also find yourself feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious. Hormonal changes can significantly impact your moods, and the many changes you’re experiencing can contribute to these feelings. Anxiety affects one in 10 pregnant women, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider if you’re feeling worried or low.
You might also start noticing the beginnings of stretch marks as your body changes. These red or purple marks typically appear on your bump and breasts, which are growing the most, but they can also appear on your thighs. According to studies, stretch marks affect between 55% and 90% of pregnant women, so you’re not alone.
There are products available to rub onto them, although their effectiveness is unclear. Most marks will naturally fade and become less noticeable after your baby is born.
Although every pregnancy and body is different, your belly bump may become more noticeable at 17 weeks pregnant and in the coming weeks as your uterus grows. This growth can also affect your centre of gravity, making physical balance more challenging.
Your waistline is now disappearing as your womb grows upwards and out of your pelvis. If people couldn’t tell before, they definitely can now. Because of the rapid increase in weight and the extension of some parts of your body, including the bumps, you will also start to spot stretch marks on your skin. They can be purple or red and will fade to silver when you’ve given birth.
You might find that your appetite goes into overdrive at this stage! Don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly feeling hungrier than ever—it’s a sign that your baby is getting bigger and hungrier too. However, remember that “eating for two” shouldn’t be taken literally. You should aim to gain around four pounds a month during pregnancy to ensure healthy weight gain for you and your baby.
Round ligament pain can be one of the more annoying symptoms of being 17 weeks pregnant. This happens because the ligaments (bands of tissue connecting bones, joints, and organs) surrounding your uterus get stretched during pregnancy, causing spasms and pain on one or both sides of your abdomen. Round ligament pain typically occurs between 14 and 27 weeks but doesn’t affect every pregnancy. While irritating, it isn’t dangerous for you or your baby.
If you notice little indented lines appearing on your breasts, belly, or behind during pregnancy, try not to worry too much. Many women experience stretch marks during pregnancy, and they often fade after giving birth. Stretch marks are largely genetic, so if your mother or sister had them, you’re more likely to develop them.
While you can apply a good lotion or stretch mark cream to relieve itchiness and stick to the recommended amount of pregnancy weight gain to reduce your chances of getting stretch marks, there’s not much you can do to prevent them. Ultimately, they’re considered badges of motherhood and a natural part of the pregnancy journey.
Mild itching is a common issue during pregnancy, particularly around areas like the breasts and belly where the skin stretches. Additionally, eczema may worsen during pregnancy, leading to increased itchiness.
To alleviate discomfort, apply an ice pack or cold compress to the itchy area, moisturise with fragrance-free lotion (for an extra cooling effect, you can refrigerate the lotion before use), or take a warm oatmeal bath. However, if you experience severe itching or develop a new rash, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Heartburn develops during pregnancy due to effects on the oesophagal sphincter. This muscle contracts and relaxes to let food pass from your oesophagus to your stomach and protect your oesophagus from stomach acid. This sphincter becomes less responsive during pregnancy, allowing stomach acid to irritate the oesophagus.
When this muscle relaxes too much, stomach acid can enter the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation or pain in your chest. It can also make you feel nauseous, bloated, or full, increase burping, and cause regurgitation of food. Heartburn affects between 17% and 45% of pregnant women and can be caused by changing hormones and your baby pressing on your stomach.
If you notice brownish or blackish spots appearing on your face, you might be experiencing melasma, also known as the mask of pregnancy. This condition affects 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women. Scientists believe that hormonal changes cause these dark spots, although the exact reasons are not fully understood.
It’s best to protect your skin from the sun to prevent melasma. Wear a wide-brimmed hat if you plan to be outside, and always apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
You will likely have gained between 5 and 10 pounds. Gaining about one to two pounds per week during the second trimester is normal. However, if you notice sudden or excessive weight gain, it could sometimes indicate a health issue, though not always. If you have any concerns, reach out to your obstetrician.
The hormone progesterone causes blood vessels to relax and widen, ensuring adequate blood flow to the baby but potentially slowing your blood flow, leading to lower blood pressure and dizziness. The extra body heat during pregnancy can also make you feel lightheaded. In later stages, the pressure from the growing baby, uterus, placenta, and amniotic fluid on blood vessels can cause dizziness, especially when lying on your back.
If you experience dizziness, inform your healthcare provider, who can check for conditions like anaemia. Self-help steps include rising slowly from sitting or lying down, eating small, frequent meals to maintain stable blood sugar, and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Aim for 12 to 13 glasses of fluids daily, primarily water, and avoid caffeinated drinks.
You might find that your appetite goes into overdrive at this stage! Don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly feeling hungrier than ever—it’s a sign that your baby is getting bigger and hungrier too. However, remember that “eating for two” shouldn’t be taken literally. You should aim to gain around four pounds a month during pregnancy to ensure healthy weight gain for you and your baby.
Round ligament pain can be one of the more annoying symptoms of being 17 weeks pregnant. This happens because the ligaments (bands of tissue connecting bones, joints, and organs) surrounding your uterus get stretched during pregnancy, causing spasms and pain on one or both sides of your abdomen. Round ligament pain typically occurs between 14 and 27 weeks but doesn’t affect every pregnancy. While irritating, it isn’t dangerous for you or your baby.
If you notice little indented lines appearing on your breasts, belly, or behind during pregnancy, try not to worry too much. Many women experience stretch marks during pregnancy, and they often fade after giving birth. Stretch marks are largely genetic, so if your mother or sister had them, you’re more likely to develop them.
While you can apply a good lotion or stretch mark cream to relieve itchiness and stick to the recommended amount of pregnancy weight gain to reduce your chances of getting stretch marks, there’s not much you can do to prevent them. Ultimately, they’re considered badges of motherhood and a natural part of the pregnancy journey.
Mild itching is a common issue during pregnancy, particularly around areas like the breasts and belly where the skin stretches. Additionally, eczema may worsen during pregnancy, leading to increased itchiness.
To alleviate discomfort, apply an ice pack or cold compress to the itchy area, moisturise with fragrance-free lotion (for an extra cooling effect, you can refrigerate the lotion before use), or take a warm oatmeal bath. However, if you experience severe itching or develop a new rash, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Heartburn develops during pregnancy due to effects on the oesophagal sphincter. This muscle contracts and relaxes to let food pass from your oesophagus to your stomach and protect your oesophagus from stomach acid. This sphincter becomes less responsive during pregnancy, allowing stomach acid to irritate the oesophagus.
When this muscle relaxes too much, stomach acid can enter the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation or pain in your chest. It can also make you feel nauseous, bloated, or full, increase burping, and cause regurgitation of food. Heartburn affects between 17% and 45% of pregnant women and can be caused by changing hormones and your baby pressing on your stomach.
If you notice brownish or blackish spots appearing on your face, you might be experiencing melasma, also known as the mask of pregnancy. This condition affects 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women. Scientists believe that hormonal changes cause these dark spots, although the exact reasons are not fully understood.
It’s best to protect your skin from the sun to prevent melasma. Wear a wide-brimmed hat if you plan to be outside, and always apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
You will likely have gained between 5 and 10 pounds. Gaining about one to two pounds per week during the second trimester is normal. However, if you notice sudden or excessive weight gain, it could sometimes indicate a health issue, though not always. If you have any concerns, reach out to your obstetrician.
The hormone progesterone causes blood vessels to relax and widen, ensuring adequate blood flow to the baby but potentially slowing your blood flow, leading to lower blood pressure and dizziness. The extra body heat during pregnancy can also make you feel lightheaded. In later stages, the pressure from the growing baby, uterus, placenta, and amniotic fluid on blood vessels can cause dizziness, especially when lying on your back.
If you experience dizziness, inform your healthcare provider, who can check for conditions like anaemia. Self-help steps include rising slowly from sitting or lying down, eating small, frequent meals to maintain stable blood sugar, and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Aim for 12 to 13 glasses of fluids daily, primarily water, and avoid caffeinated drinks.
Fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, burning sensation while urinating, and pelvic pain are likely symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Speak with your OB-GYN or midwife if you experience any of these. Your obstetrician will give you some baby-safe antibiotics to use.
Pregnancy can worsen chronic conditions. Conditions like hypertension and diabetes can cause a lot of harm to you and your baby. Take all prescribed medication and exercise regularly. Also, regularly checking your blood pressure and blood sugar level is vital.
Pregnancy is hard work, and it’s normal to sweat more than usual. Pregnant women are more susceptible to heat-related illness because their bodies are working to keep their babies cool as well. To manage this, rest often, wear loose clothing, and drink plenty of water. Talking to your doctor about replacing the salts and minerals you lose through sweat is also a good idea. Cooling down with a slightly colder shower in the morning can also help.
While it’s true you’re eating for two, it’s important not to overindulge. At 17 weeks, you should aim to consume an additional 200 to 400 calories per day to support both you and your baby, adjusting based on your pre-pregnancy weight and activity level. Concentrate on having small meals that primarily include lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
It’s important to adjust your exercise routine during pregnancy. While staying active benefits you and your baby, you should avoid contact sports and activities with a higher risk of falls or injuries after the first trimester. Fortunately, plenty of safe and effective pregnancy-friendly workouts include walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics.
Are you noticing spots on your face, a line down your lower belly, or skin tags on your upper arms? Don’t rush to the dermatologist just yet. These unusual skin symptoms, including darkening moles and heat rashes, are normal and temporary during pregnancy. Hormones are the main cause, but sun exposure can make these changes more pronounced.
To protect your skin, stay shaded whenever possible and consider investing in a wide-brimmed hat. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher outside. Using sunscreen is both safe and smart during pregnancy. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
During pregnancy and childbirth, your pelvic floor muscles endure significant strain. You might experience urine leakage when you cough or sneeze if these muscles weaken. Performing pelvic floor exercises can reduce the risk of incontinence after your baby is born, and it’s beneficial to start these exercises as early as possible.
Pregnancy is hard work, and it’s normal to sweat more than usual. Pregnant women are more susceptible to heat-related illness because their bodies are working to keep their babies cool as well. To manage this, rest often, wear loose clothing, and drink plenty of water. Talking to your doctor about replacing the salts and minerals you lose through sweat is also a good idea. Cooling down with a slightly colder shower in the morning can also help.
Itchy skin can be quite bothersome during pregnancy, particularly as your belly expands. To soothe the irritation, use natural aloe vera gel, which is excellent for locking in moisture and calming the skin. For added hydration, mix the aloe vera gel with a moisturizer containing vitamin E or cocoa butter, known for its deep moisturizing properties.
Apply this combination regularly, especially after showers when your skin is still damp, to nourish and hydrate your skin. Additionally, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and wearing loose, breathable clothing to avoid further irritation. If the itching persists or becomes severe, consult your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.
While it’s true you’re eating for two, it’s important not to overindulge. At 17 weeks, you should aim to consume an additional 200 to 400 calories per day to support both you and your baby, adjusting based on your pre-pregnancy weight and activity level. Concentrate on having small meals that primarily include lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
It’s important to adjust your exercise routine during pregnancy. While staying active benefits you and your baby, you should avoid contact sports and activities with a higher risk of falls or injuries after the first trimester. Fortunately, plenty of safe and effective pregnancy-friendly workouts include walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics.
Are you noticing spots on your face, a line down your lower belly, or skin tags on your upper arms? Don’t rush to the dermatologist just yet. These unusual skin symptoms, including darkening moles and heat rashes, are normal and temporary during pregnancy. Hormones are the main cause, but sun exposure can make these changes more pronounced.
To protect your skin, stay shaded whenever possible and consider investing in a wide-brimmed hat. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher outside. Using sunscreen is both safe and smart during pregnancy. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
During pregnancy and childbirth, your pelvic floor muscles endure significant strain. You might experience urine leakage when you cough or sneeze if these muscles weaken. Performing pelvic floor exercises can reduce the risk of incontinence after your baby is born, and it’s beneficial to start these exercises as early as possible.
Itchy skin can be quite bothersome during pregnancy, particularly as your belly expands. To soothe the irritation, use natural aloe vera gel, which is excellent for locking in moisture and calming the skin. For added hydration, mix the aloe vera gel with a moisturizer containing vitamin E or cocoa butter, known for its deep moisturizing properties.
Apply this combination regularly, especially after showers when your skin is still damp, to nourish and hydrate your skin. Additionally, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and wearing loose, breathable clothing to avoid further irritation. If the itching persists or becomes severe, consult your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.
You might often wonder how you will afford to raise a child. However, with some planning, certain parts of parenting can become a bit easier. Consider starting a college fund for your son or daughter. It might not cover all college costs, but 18 years later, you’ll be glad you started planning early.
As the pregnancy progresses, your partner might be experiencing lower back pain and swollen feet. It’s essential to support them by giving them plenty of time to relax and put their feet up.
Consider taking on some extra chores around the house to ease their burden. Additionally, you could offer them a relaxing foot bath and a gentle foot rub at the end of the day to help alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation.
At seventeen weeks, your baby weighs 140 grams and measures about 5.12 inches in length. Your baby is about the size of a pomegranate. Fat tissues are forming under your little one’s skin, which will provide energy and help keep them warm after birth.
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby’s umbilical cord strengthens to ensure proper blood flow. Their sense of hearing is developing as their ears settle into place. Fat tissue is forming, aiding in body temperature regulation and metabolism.
The skeleton, initially cartilage, is transforming into bone, emphasizing the importance of vitamin D intake for bone health. Your baby now measures about 5.12 inches and weighs around 140g, with fingerprints and unique patterns forming on their fingers and toes. They can now open and close their mouth, react to sounds, and move their eyes, although their eyelids remain shut.
At 17 weeks pregnant, you’re 4 months along. Pregnancy is technically longer than nine months—it’s 40 weeks long. If you assign four weeks to a month, that equates to 10 months. This can become confusing since some months have slightly more than four weeks. To provide a more accurate timeline, Doctors track pregnancy by weeks, not months.
At 17 weeks, there aren’t specific signs to look out for to indicate a healthy pregnancy. The best thing you can do for your body and baby is to try to relax, even though it can sometimes be challenging. At this stage, there are no universal milestones for a “healthy” pregnancy. Feeling anxious during pregnancy is normal, so remember you are not alone. Many women find it difficult to stay relaxed during this time. If you have any worries, contact your healthcare provider, who can hopefully reassure you that everything is progressing well.
Many people believe that if you’re carrying high or experiencing severe morning sickness, you’re having a girl. Conversely, if you’re carrying most of your weight in front and craving salty snacks, some think it means a boy is on the way.
While trying to guess your baby’s gender can be entertaining, gender-specific pregnancy symptoms are largely myths without scientific proof. The most reliable method for determining your baby’s sex before birth is through ultrasound, typically performed by week 20. You can also wait until your baby is born to let nature reveal the wonderful surprise.
At seventeen weeks, your baby weighs 140 grams and measures about 5.12 inches in length. Your baby is about the size of a pomegranate. Fat tissues are forming under your little one’s skin, which will provide energy and help keep them warm after birth.
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby’s umbilical cord strengthens to ensure proper blood flow. Their sense of hearing is developing as their ears settle into place. Fat tissue is forming, aiding in body temperature regulation and metabolism.
The skeleton, initially cartilage, is transforming into bone, emphasizing the importance of vitamin D intake for bone health. Your baby now measures about 5.12 inches and weighs around 140g, with fingerprints and unique patterns forming on their fingers and toes. They can now open and close their mouth, react to sounds, and move their eyes, although their eyelids remain shut.
At 17 weeks pregnant, you’re 4 months along. Pregnancy is technically longer than nine months—it’s 40 weeks long. If you assign four weeks to a month, that equates to 10 months. This can become confusing since some months have slightly more than four weeks. To provide a more accurate timeline, Doctors track pregnancy by weeks, not months.
At 17 weeks, there aren’t specific signs to look out for to indicate a healthy pregnancy. The best thing you can do for your body and baby is to try to relax, even though it can sometimes be challenging. At this stage, there are no universal milestones for a “healthy” pregnancy. Feeling anxious during pregnancy is normal, so remember you are not alone. Many women find it difficult to stay relaxed during this time. If you have any worries, contact your healthcare provider, who can hopefully reassure you that everything is progressing well.
Many people believe that if you’re carrying high or experiencing severe morning sickness, you’re having a girl. Conversely, if you’re carrying most of your weight in front and craving salty snacks, some think it means a boy is on the way.
While trying to guess your baby’s gender can be entertaining, gender-specific pregnancy symptoms are largely myths without scientific proof. The most reliable method for determining your baby’s sex before birth is through ultrasound, typically performed by week 20. You can also wait until your baby is born to let nature reveal the wonderful surprise.
1. American Pregnancy Association. 17 Weeks Pregnant
2. Bolanča, I., Bolanča, Ž., Kuna, K., Vuković, A., Tučkar, N., Herman, R. and Grubišić, G., 2008. Chloasma–the mask of pregnancy. Collegium antropologicum, 32(2), pp.139-141.
3. Farahnik, B., Park, K., Kroumpouzos, G. and Murase, J., 2017. Striae gravidarum: Risk factors, prevention, and management. International journal of women’s dermatology, 3(2), pp.77-85.
4. Let’s talk birth and baby. Pregnancy Week 17.
5. Multidisciplinary Obstetric Medicine Service (MOMS). Anxiety During Pregnancy.
6. Vazquez, J.C., 2015. Heartburn in pregnancy. BMJ clinical evidence, 2015.
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