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 · 5.3 oz
Baby this week
- •Ears are now in their final position on the sides of the head
- •Bones are becoming harder and more defined, especially in the spine
- •Baby can now hear sounds, including your voice and heartbeat
- •Fingerprints are forming on tiny fingertips
- •Sweat glands are developing
You this week
- •Increased appetite as your metabolism adjusts to pregnancy
- •Possible back pain as your center of gravity shifts
- •Braxton Hicks contractions (usually painless, irregular)
- •Continued fatigue, though some women experience an energy boost in second trimester
- •Potential vision changes due to hormonal shifts and increased fluid retention
- •Leg cramps, especially at night
This week's tips
- •Start prenatal exercises like pelvic floor strengthening to prepare for labor and recovery
- •Invest in a pregnancy pillow for better sleep support as your belly grows
- •Pay attention to your baby's movements and patterns—you're likely feeling quickening by now
- •Stay hydrated, especially if you're experiencing leg cramps
- •Eat nutrient-dense snacks to support your increased calorie needs (around 300 extra calories daily)
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Your second trimester is in full swing, and many women find this the most enjoyable period of pregnancy. Your anatomy scan is coming up in the next few weeks if you haven't had it already—an exciting milestone to see your baby in detail.
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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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