Source: bing.comCongratulations on reaching the 17th week of your pregnancy! At this stage, your baby is growing and developing rapidly. They are about the size of an onion and weigh around 5 ounces. Here’s what you can expect in terms of your baby’s development at 17 weeks pregnant.
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Baby’s Size and Appearance
At 17 weeks, your baby is approximately 5.1 inches long from crown to rump and weighs around 5 ounces. They are starting to look more like a baby with their facial features becoming more defined. Your baby’s skin is still thin, and their veins are visible through it. Their hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes are growing, and their nails are developing.
Baby’s Brain and Nervous System
Your baby’s brain and nervous system are rapidly developing at 17 weeks. Your baby’s brain is growing at a remarkable rate, and their nerve cells are starting to form connections with each other. Your baby’s senses are also starting to develop, and they may even be able to hear your voice or other sounds around them.
Baby’s Digestive System
Your baby’s digestive system is starting to function at 17 weeks pregnant. Your baby’s intestines are starting to move and contract, and they may even start to swallow small amounts of amniotic fluid. The swallowed fluid will pass through your baby’s digestive system and will eventually become their first bowel movement after birth.
Baby’s Movement
At 17 weeks pregnant, you may start to feel your baby’s movements, also known as quickening. Your baby is becoming more active, and you may feel little fluttering sensations in your belly. As your baby grows and develops, their movements will become more frequent and stronger.
What Should You Do at 17 Weeks Pregnant?
At 17 weeks pregnant, it’s important to continue taking care of yourself and your growing baby. Here are a few things you can do:
- Attend all your prenatal appointments
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Stay active and exercise regularly
- Take any prescribed prenatal vitamins or supplements
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs
Frequently Asked Questions about Baby’s Development at 17 Weeks Pregnant
What does my baby look like at 17 weeks pregnant?
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of an onion and weighs around 5 ounces. They are starting to look more like a baby with their facial features becoming more defined. Their skin is still thin, and their veins are visible through it. Their hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes are growing, and their nails are developing.
When will I start feeling my baby move?
You may start to feel your baby’s movements, also known as quickening, at around 17 weeks pregnant. You may feel little fluttering sensations in your belly. As your baby grows and develops, their movements will become more frequent and stronger.
What can I do to promote my baby’s development at 17 weeks pregnant?
To promote your baby’s development at 17 weeks pregnant, it’s important to continue taking care of yourself and your growing baby. Attend all your prenatal appointments, eat a healthy and balanced diet, stay active and exercise regularly, take any prescribed prenatal vitamins or supplements, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
What should I be eating at 17 weeks pregnant?
At 17 weeks pregnant, it’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. You should also avoid foods that are high in sugar, salt, and saturated or trans fats.
Is it safe to have sex at 17 weeks pregnant?
In most cases, it’s safe to have sex at 17 weeks pregnant. However, if you have any concerns or complications, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first.
In conclusion, your baby is growing and developing rapidly at 17 weeks pregnant. It’s important to take care of yourself and your growing baby by attending all your prenatal appointments, eating a healthy and balanced diet, staying active, taking any prescribed prenatal vitamins or supplements, and avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs. If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider.