Week 17 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a turnip
5.1 inches · 5.9 oz
Baby this week
- •Baby's skeleton is starting to harden from cartilage to bone
- •Sweat glands are forming on palms and soles of feet
- •Baby can now hear sounds from the outside world
- •Ears are moving into their final position on the sides of the head
You this week
- •Round ligament pain (sharp twinges on one or both sides of lower abdomen)
- •Increased appetite as your metabolism adjusts
- •Possible backache from your changing posture and center of gravity
- •Continued pregnancy glow from increased blood flow
- •Possible mild swelling in hands and feet
This week's tips
- •Support your lower back with a small pillow when sitting, and consider a maternity support belt if round ligament pain is bothersome
- •Stay hydrated—aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily to help with circulation and reduce swelling
- •Try talking or singing to your baby; they can hear you now and may respond to familiar voices
- •Eat regular, balanced meals and healthy snacks to keep energy steady and support baby's growth
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Your mid-pregnancy anatomy scan (if planned) is likely coming up in the next few weeks. This is a wonderful milestone to see your baby's development and confirm everything is progressing well. You may also start noticing baby's movements more distinctly soon.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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