Week 17 of Pregnancy: Important Developments and Symptoms for Expectant Mothers

17th Week of Pregnancy (Week 17)

Welcome to the 17th week of your pregnancy – you are now in the fifth month! For many mums-to-be, this is the beginning of a particularly lovely phase: your bump is gradually becoming rounder, your energy levels are rising, and you might even feel the first gentle movements of your baby.

Your little one is also growing rapidly. In week 17, your baby is not only busy practising swallowing and kicking, but their hearing is also developing further – your baby can now perceive sounds from outside.

Let’s discover together what changes are happening for you and your baby this week – and how you can bring body and mind into harmony.

The 17th Week of Pregnancy at a Glance

Your baby in week 17:

Your baby is now about 12–13 cm long and weighs around 140–150 grams – about the size of a pear.
The skeleton is becoming increasingly stable: soft cartilage tissue is now turning into bone.
Your baby drinks amniotic fluid, which helps train the digestive system – and passes small amounts of urine.
The skin is still very thin, but is now protected by vernix caseosa.
Hearing is developed enough that your baby can perceive your voice or music.

Your body in week 17:

Your uterus is now noticeably larger and sits roughly at the level of your navel.
Many pregnant women experience back or groin pain caused by the stretching of the round ligaments.
Your skin may appear rosier and fresher due to improved blood circulation.
Your weight may now steadily increase – this is completely normal and important for your baby’s development.

Baby’s Development in Week 17

In the 17th week of pregnancy, around the middle of the 5th month, your baby is becoming more defined and is starting to look more and more like a little human. The head is now more proportionate to the body, and arms and legs are fully formed. The nervous system is particularly active in this phase – sensory perception is increasing, and your baby can recognise and process light and sounds.

The fine lanugo hair now covers your baby’s body and, together with the developing vernix caseosa, protects the delicate skin. This white layer acts as a natural fatty shield, protecting your baby in the amniotic fluid.

In addition, your child is now starting to store fat – sometimes called “baby fat” – which will help to keep them warm after birth. This is a completely natural and important process for regulating body temperature after leaving the womb.

You might now feel a gentle fluttering in your belly – a first sign of your baby’s movements! Especially women who have already had children often notice these movements a little earlier. For many parents, this is a very special moment that deepens the bond with their baby.

Your Body in the 17th Week of Pregnancy

The changes in your body become more and more noticeable in week 17. The uterus continues to grow into your abdomen and may press on other organs like your stomach, bladder, or intestines. This can cause typical symptoms such as heartburn, frequent urination, or a slight feeling of pressure in the abdominal area.

Your appetite is also likely to increase – this is entirely normal, as your body now needs more energy for the baby’s continuing growth. Gaining a little extra fat or small fat deposits is nothing unusual. They later serve as an energy source, for example for the production of breast milk after birth.

Your circulatory system is also working harder: your heart pumps more blood around your body to optimally supply you and your baby. Many women report calf cramps, back pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen during this time – typical side effects of stretched ligaments and muscles.

Your breasts continue to change: nipples may become darker, and in some cases, a small amount of colostrum may already be produced. All of this is part of your body’s preparation for breastfeeding.

By the way: remember recommended vaccinations during pregnancy – speak to your doctor or midwife about this. Good preparation can help protect your baby even before birth.

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Tips for the 17th week of pregnancy (17 weeks)

Exercise & Back Care: Gentle exercise – such as swimming, yoga, or walking – helps relieve tension and improves your circulation. Wear comfortable shoes, avoid standing for long periods, and strengthen your back specifically.
Nutrition & Minerals: Your need for iron, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids increases. Whole grain products, green vegetables, nuts, and fish help you to stay well supplied.
Relaxation & Sleep: Even if you feel more energetic: take regular breaks. A short rest with music, a warm bath, or breathing exercises will help you to relax both body and mind.
Care for growing skin: Your bump is growing – now is the perfect time for tummy massages with natural oils (e.g. almond oil) to keep the skin supple and help prevent stretch marks.

Frequently asked questions about week 17 of pregnancy

Can I feel my baby in the 17th week?

Maybe – first movements often feel like a gentle flutter in your lower abdomen. Your baby is becoming increasingly active in the womb.

How big is the baby in week 17?

The foetus is around 12–13 cm long and weighs about 150 g – about the size of a pear. The first little fat stores are also forming.

What happens to the bump in the 17th week of pregnancy?

Your bump is growing, as your baby's growth is accelerating. The uterus now reaches up to the pubic bone or higher.

What should I look out for in week 17?

Pay attention to good nutrition to build up fat stores for milk production, and take minor issues such as constipation seriously.

What helps with back pain in the 17th week?

Exercise, warmth, and relieving your circulation can help. The cause is often the growing uterus and the stretching of ligaments in the lower abdomen.

What is developing in the baby during week 17?

The face is becoming more defined: eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals continue to take shape. The senses are also steadily maturing.

Can my baby hear in week 17?

Yes, your baby can perceive the first sounds – such as your blood flow or music. Hearing is one of the first senses to become active.

Is it normal to sweat more in week 17?

Yes. Your body temperature is often higher – a typical hormonal side effect of this month of pregnancy.

How can I involve my family or friends?

Tell friends or family about your experiences and perhaps start the first conversations about baby names.

When can the sex be detected?

Between the 17th and 20th week, the sex can usually be seen on an ultrasound – ask your doctor at your next appointment.

What does my baby do with its thumb in week 17?

Many babies now start sucking their thumb – this trains the muscles in the mouth and face and prepares them for breastfeeding.

Are there common problems in the 17th week of pregnancy?

Common problems are constipation, haemorrhoids or circulatory issues – all normal, but still worth discussing with your doctor.

What happens with the umbilical cord in week 17?

The umbilical cord is growing too and supplies your baby with everything it needs to live in the womb – nutrients, oxygen, and warmth.