At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a large onion, measuring approximately 5 inches long and weighing around 5 ounces. As you progress through your fourth month, there are exciting developments happening both for you and your little one.
Your Baby’s Development at 17 Weeks
- Learning to Feed: Your baby is practicing sucking and swallowing, getting ready for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding once they arrive.
- Hearing Development: This week, your baby’s ears are nearly fully formed, allowing them to start hearing sounds, including your voice!
- Fat Storage: Fat deposits are beginning to form under your baby’s skin, providing essential energy and warmth after birth.
Changes in Your Body
As you enter this stage of pregnancy, you may experience dizziness due to hormonal changes, your growing uterus, and an expanding circulatory system. It’s important to stay hydrated and rest when needed.
Tips for This Week
- Stay active but listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, take a break.
- Consider exploring products for home insemination, like those available at Make a Mom, to assist in your journey to parenthood.
- For advice on breast pumps, check out this resource which provides insights on the best options available.
Additional Resources
For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource that covers a variety of topics to support your journey.
Summary
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is developing critical skills such as sucking and swallowing while also beginning to hear your voice. As your body adjusts to these changes, it’s essential to care for yourself and stay informed about your pregnancy and parenting options.