Week 17

Your baby is growing by leaps and bounds. This week, she will start developing fat under her skin and can be startled by loud noises outside the uterus. Besides that, you and your baby are going through some other huge changes.

What Is Happening To Your Body

By this point in the pregnancy, your breasts may have increased by as much as one or two cup sizes and veins in your breast have become more visible. The glands that produce milk are growing in preparation for breastfeeding, while hormones are routing extra blood flow to your breasts. Buy bras in a variety of sizes to support your breast growth.

At this point, you have probably gained about 5 to 10 pounds and your belly may be beginning to show. You may find wearing maternity clothing is more comfortable.

Your bodily secretions may also increase due to increased blood volume. This could include increased nasal congestion or a runny nose, increased sweating, or increased vaginal discharge. These symptoms are normal and will go away after the birth of your baby.

You might also still be experiencing fatigue. Sleepiness should start to improve over the next few weeks. Moderate exercise will help combat this fatigue as well.

What Is Happening To Your Baby

Your baby measures about 4.5 to 5 inches (11.4 to 12.7 cm) long from crown to rump, or roughly the size of an onion. At this point your baby weighs about 3.5 ounces (99.2 grams).

The placenta, which nourishes the fetus with nutrients and oxygen and removes waste, is growing to accommodate your baby. It now contains thousands of blood vessels that bring nutrients and oxygen from your body to your baby's developing body.

Your baby starts to form fat under its skin this week. This fat is important in generating heat and maintaining a steady metabolism. At birth, 2 to 6 percent of your baby’s weight will be fat. This will help your baby maintain a steady body temperature outside the womb.

The baby’s movements are becoming stronger and more frequent. Loud noises outside the uterus may also startle the baby.

 What Is Happening This Week?

Ultrasound images courtesy of GE Healthcare

The clinical images and information presented in this application represent normal fetal growth during a typical pregnancy.  The images and information are to be used for educational purposes only  and not for diagnostic purposes.  Please consult a licensed physician regarding any specific questions pertaining to your pregnancy.