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What’s Happening with Your Baby at 17 Weeks in the Womb?
At 17 weeks, your little one is about the size of a pomegranate. They now weigh around 5 ounces and are approximately 5 inches long. Your baby’s little bones are starting to harden, and they are beginning to develop their hearing. If you sing or talk to your belly, your little one can hear you! How cool is that?
At this stage, your baby is also developing fat under their skin, which will help regulate their body temperature once they’re born. Your baby’s sweat glands are also starting to form, which will help them cool down as they grow and move around in the womb.
Your baby’s reflexes are also becoming more developed. If you poke your belly, your little one may move away from your touch. This is a sign that their reflexes are working well.
What’s Happening with Your Body?
At 17 weeks, you may start to feel like your baby is moving around more. This is because your little one is growing and getting stronger. You may also start to feel more hungry and thirsty as your baby grows and needs more nutrients.
You may also start to experience some round ligament pain. This is a sharp pain in your lower abdomen that can be caused by the stretching of your ligaments as your uterus grows. This is completely normal, but if the pain is severe, you should speak to your healthcare provider.
You may also notice that your skin is glowing and your hair is looking fuller and shinier. This is due to the surge of pregnancy hormones in your body.
What You Can Do at 17 Weeks?
At 17 weeks, it’s a good time to start thinking about your baby registry. Whether you’re having a baby shower or not, it’s a good idea to start thinking about what you’ll need for your little one. Some essentials include a crib, car seat, stroller, and baby clothes.
You can also start thinking about your birth plan. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options for pain management and delivery, and start thinking about what kind of birth experience you want to have.
It’s also important to continue to take care of yourself. Eat a healthy, balanced diet, and make sure you’re getting enough rest. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?
A: Yes, in most cases, it is safe to have sex during pregnancy. However, you should speak to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or if you have a high-risk pregnancy.
Q: When will I start to feel my baby move?
A: You may start to feel your baby move around 16-25 weeks. However, if this is your first pregnancy, you may not feel your baby move until closer to 25 weeks.
Q: How can I reduce round ligament pain?
A: You can reduce round ligament pain by taking it easy and avoiding sudden movements. You can also try doing gentle stretches to help ease the pain.
Q: Can I dye my hair during pregnancy?
A: While there is no conclusive evidence that hair dye is harmful during pregnancy, some women choose to avoid it during the first trimester. If you decide to dye your hair, make sure to do it in a well-ventilated area and avoid letting the dye touch your scalp.
Q: Is it normal to feel anxious during pregnancy?
A: Yes, it’s completely normal to feel anxious during pregnancy. However, if your anxiety becomes overwhelming or if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, you should speak to your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, 17 weeks marks an important milestone in your baby’s development. Your little one is growing and developing more every day, and it’s important to take care of yourself and your baby during this exciting time. Remember to listen to your body and speak to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.