Welcome to the week-by-week guide on your pregnancy journey! Here’s what you can expect at 17 weeks along, including your body’s changes, your baby’s growth, and some common symptoms.
Your Body at 17 Weeks Pregnant
Embrace the Glow and Cravings!
At this point in your pregnancy, you’re likely feeling a renewed sense of energy as nausea fades into the background. You’re probably starting to show, and those cravings? It’s time to indulge a bit! Increased blood volume and naturally oily skin contribute to that much-talked-about pregnancy glow. Expect to gain about 1 to 2 pounds each week now, as your energy levels rise.
This is the ideal moment to start engaging in moderate exercise, prepare your home for the baby, and if this is your first experience with pregnancy, seize the opportunity to take long naps on weekends—you’ll miss that quiet time soon enough.
Congestion Issues
You may be experiencing some nasal congestion due to swollen blood vessels, but this should resolve on its own. If it lingers or worsens, you could be dealing with pregnancy rhinitis, so consult your doctor before trying any over-the-counter remedies. This condition typically resolves after childbirth.
Your Baby at Week 17
At 17 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a taco, weighing nearly 5 ounces and measuring about 5 inches long. They are covered in fine hair known as lanugo, which will help keep them warm as more body fat develops. This week also marks the formation of sweat glands and the thickening of the umbilical cord.
Practicing Essential Skills
Your little one is busy preparing for those late-night feedings by practicing skills like sucking, swallowing, and breathing. They are swallowing and then expelling amniotic fluid, and some may even be sucking their thumbs. With their ears fully developed, they are ready to enjoy your favorite music, possibly even giving you some kicks in response as some mothers start to feel movements around this time.
Symptoms and Health at Week 17
Headaches and Migraines
While it’s important to take any discomfort seriously, the rise in blood volume can result in headaches and migraines for some pregnant women. Dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, posture, and blood flow changes may be contributing factors. Always consult your healthcare provider if symptoms persist, especially during the third trimester, as severe headaches could indicate high blood pressure or preeclampsia.
Bloating and Constipation
Hormonal changes can slow down your digestive system, leading to bloating and constipation. Staying hydrated, exercising moderately, and eating a fiber-rich diet may alleviate these issues and help prevent hemorrhoids.
Feeling Clumsy?
As pregnancy hormones relax your joints and ligaments, you may feel a bit clumsier than usual. Be cautious as your body adjusts to a new weight distribution that affects your balance.
Linea Nigra
Many women experience a dark vertical line, known as linea nigra, appearing on their bellies during the second trimester due to hormonal changes. This harmless line will fade after childbirth.
Lingering Morning Sickness
Although morning sickness typically subsides by around 12 to 14 weeks, some women may continue to experience nausea into their second trimester. If your symptoms are severe, reach out to your doctor to rule out hyperemesis gravidarum, a more serious condition.
Twins on Board?
If you’re expecting twins, you might be noticing the weight gain your doctors have been encouraging. This is the time to embrace comfort and prepare for the challenges of carrying two little ones. You may even begin to feel their movements this week—exciting times ahead!
For more information on artificial insemination options, check out our related post on at-home intracervical insemination syringe kit. Also, if you’re looking for tips on maternity photography, visit this authority site. For a comprehensive overview of different treatments, WebMD offers excellent resources.
Summary
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is the size of a taco, and you may be enjoying newfound energy and a beautiful glow. While some symptoms like headaches and congestion can arise, it’s a time of exciting growth for both you and your little one. Make sure to stay hydrated and consult your doctor with any concerns.