Quick guide:

• What’s happening with the baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

• How big is your baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

• How is your belly at 17 weeks pregnant?

• Common symptoms and how to manage them?

• Frequently asked questions at 17 weeks pregnant

What’s happening with the baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

Baby’s bones and skeleton

One of the most important developments at 17 weeks is that your baby’s skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to harder bone. This process is essential for the structural strength your baby will need after birth. Make sure you're getting enough calcium to support your baby’s bone health and your own!

Baby’s umbilical cord

The umbilical cord, your baby’s lifeline, continues to grow stronger and thicker. By the end of your pregnancy, the cord will be about 23 centimeters long and 2.5 centimeters thick. It plays a crucial role in delivering nutrients and oxygen to your baby and removing waste products.

Baby’s skin development

At 17 weeks, your baby’s sweat glands are beginning to develop. The skin is still thin, but it's starting to form layers that will protect them as they continue to grow. This development will continue into the following weeks.

Baby’s sensory development

Your baby’s sense of hearing is improving. Between 16 and 22 weeks, they will begin to hear sounds from within your body, like your heartbeat, breathing, and digestion. These early sounds help stimulate your baby’s auditory system and provide a sense of connection to you.

Movements

Although you may still not be feeling it, your baby is becoming more active and moving around more. Their arms and legs are getting stronger and more coordinated. You might start feeling the first flutters of movement soon, known as "quickening," especially if this is your second pregnancy or beyond.

How big is your baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

Your baby is about the size of a pomegranate. They measure around 12.7 centimeters long and weigh about 140 grams. Your baby is growing bigger and becoming more proportional, with arms and legs now in balance with the rest of the body.

How is your belly at 17 weeks pregnant?

By now, your uterus has grown significantly and is moving above your pelvic bone. Your baby bump might become more visible, especially if it's your second pregnancy or later. For first-time moms, it can still be subtle, but you'll notice that your belly is rounder and firmer compared to the earlier weeks.

Common symptoms and how to manage them?

1) Increased appetite

As your baby grows, so does your need for nutrients. At 17 weeks, your body is working harder to provide for both you and your baby. You may start noticing that you’re hungrier than usual or craving certain foods.

How to manage:

• Opt for healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or yogurt to keep you energized.

• Focus on balanced meals to maintain steady energy levels and avoid excessive weight gain.

2) Round ligament pain

This pain occurs because the ligaments supporting your uterus are stretching and thinning as your baby grows. The pain typically feels like a sharp or dull ache, usually on one or both sides of your lower abdomen. It can happen when you change positions quickly, such as standing up too fast or rolling over in bed.

How to manage:

• Avoid sudden movements that may trigger the pain.

• Try to change positions slowly, especially when sitting or standing.

• Wear a supportive maternity belt to help ease the discomfort.

3) Skin changes

At 17 weeks, many women start noticing skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations. You might see the linea nigra, a dark line running vertically from your belly button to your pubic bone. Stretch marks are also common as your skin stretches to accommodate your growing belly.

How to manage:

• Use a moisturizing lotion to keep your skin hydrated.

• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from darkening and pigmentation changes.

• Stretch marks are common but not preventable — keeping your skin moisturized can help minimize their appearance.

4) Increased blood flow and nasal congestion

Due to increased blood flow, many pregnant women experience nasal congestion or a stuffy nose, which is caused by swelling of the mucous membranes in the nose. This can make breathing difficult, especially at night.

How to manage:

• Use a humidifier at night to keep the air moist.

• Saline nasal sprays can help relieve congestion.

• Stay hydrated to help with mucus buildup.

5) Leg cramps

Leg cramps, especially at night, are common during pregnancy. They happen due to the extra weight you’re carrying and changes in your circulation. The muscles in your legs can tighten or contract, causing sudden pain.

How to manage:

• Stretch your legs before bed and try to get up and walk around during the day.

• Stay hydrated to prevent cramps.

• A calcium and magnesium-rich diet may also help.

6) Fatigue

While some women experience a boost in energy during the second trimester, others still feel fatigued as their body adapts to pregnancy. This may happen if you’re not getting enough sleep or if you’re dealing with pregnancy-related symptoms.

How to manage:

• Take naps when you can to recharge, but also try to get quality sleep at night.

• Try gentle exercise like walking or yoga to boost energy levels and improve circulation.

• Make sure you’re getting enough iron and B vitamins in your diet, as deficiencies in these can contribute to feelings of fatigue.

Frequently asked questions at 17 weeks pregnant

Can I start feeling my baby move at 17 weeks?

Yes, many women start feeling their baby’s movements between 16 and 22 weeks. At 17 weeks, your baby is becoming more active, and you might begin to feel subtle flutters or "quickening." First-time moms often feel these movements later than those who have been pregnant before. Tip: It’s more likely you’ll feel these movements when you’re sitting or lying down quietly.

Is it normal to feel tired at 17 weeks?

Yes, fatigue can still be common at 17 weeks, even though the second trimester is often when energy levels start to improve. You may still feel tired due to your body's increased blood volume, hormonal changes, and the extra work your body is doing to support the growing baby.

Is it safe to exercise at 17 weeks?

For most women, moderate exercise is perfectly safe at 17 weeks, and it’s encouraged as long as your doctor has cleared you for activity. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improves circulation, and can boost your mood.

Should I be concerned about round ligament pain?

Round ligament pain is common around 17 weeks and is usually nothing to worry about. It's caused by the ligaments supporting your uterus stretching to accommodate your growing baby. The pain typically feels like a sharp or cramp-like sensation on the side of your abdomen.

Can I have sex at 17 weeks pregnant?

In most cases, it is perfectly safe to have sex during pregnancy, including at 17 weeks, as long as your pregnancy is progressing normally and you don't have any complications (like placenta previa or signs of preterm labor).

How can I improve my sleep during pregnancy?

Many women experience better sleep during the second trimester, but you might still have trouble finding a comfortable position. By 17 weeks, it's recommended to sleep on your side (preferably your left side) to improve blood flow to the uterus and ensure maximum oxygen and nutrient delivery to your baby.

Should I be worried about feeling short of breath?

Shortness of breath can start to occur as your uterus expands, putting pressure on your diaphragm. It's usually normal, but if it becomes severe or you feel dizzy or faint, contact your doctor.