Congratulations! You’ve made it to 17 weeks of pregnancy, and your little one is growing fast. At this point, your baby is about the size of a pomegranate – around 5.1 inches long and 5.9 ounces in weight. There are many exciting developments happening with your baby during this time, so let’s take a closer look.
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Your Baby’s Physical Development
During week 17, your baby’s skeleton is continuing to harden and become stronger. Their sweat glands, hair, and nails are also starting to form. If you’re having a girl, her ovaries will have around 2 million eggs now (which will decrease to around 400,000 by the time she’s born).
Your Baby’s Sensory Development
Your baby’s sensory development is also progressing rapidly. At this stage, they can move their limbs and even suck their thumb. They are also becoming more sensitive to light and dark, and their taste buds are developing.
Your Baby’s Brain Development
Your baby’s brain continues to grow and develop at a rapid pace during week 17. They are forming new neural connections, and their brain is starting to coordinate voluntary movements. Your baby is also starting to develop their sense of hearing, and may be able to hear your voice or music that you play.
Your Physical Changes
While your baby is growing and developing, your body is also going through some changes. You may start to feel more energetic and less nauseous as you enter the second trimester. You may also start to notice some weight gain and an expanding belly.
Your Emotional Changes
As your pregnancy progresses, you may also experience some emotional changes. You may feel more connected to your baby and excited about their upcoming arrival. You may also feel anxious or overwhelmed at times, which is perfectly normal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I be eating during week 17?
A: It’s important to continue eating a healthy, balanced diet during week 17. Focus on getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks.
Q: When will I start feeling my baby move?
A: Every pregnancy is different, but you may start feeling your baby move (also known as quickening) around week 18-20.
Q: Can I still exercise during week 17?
A: Yes, unless your doctor advises otherwise, it’s safe to exercise during pregnancy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Q: What can I do to alleviate pregnancy symptoms?
A: Some common pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, may be alleviated by getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating small, frequent meals. Speak with your doctor if you are experiencing severe symptoms.
Q: When should I start planning for my baby’s arrival?
A: It’s never too early to start planning for your baby’s arrival! Consider creating a baby registry, setting up a nursery, and researching baby gear and supplies.
Conclusion
Week 17 of pregnancy is an exciting time for you and your baby. Your little one is growing and developing quickly, and you may be starting to feel more connected to them. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this time and speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.