Everything you need to know about week 17 of pregnancy

17th week of pregnancy (Week 17)

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

Your little treasure is now growing rapidly. In the 17th week of pregnancy, your baby is not only busily practising swallowing and kicking, but the sense of hearing is also developing further – your baby can now perceive sounds from outside.

Let’s discover together what is changing for you and your baby this week – and how you can bring body and soul into harmony.

The 17th week of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby at 17 weeks pregnant:

• Your baby is now about 12–13 cm long and weighs around 140–150 grams – comparable to a pear.
• The skeleton is becoming increasingly stable: soft cartilage tissue is now developing into bone.
• It drinks amniotic fluid, thus training its digestive system – and excretes its first amounts of urine.
• The skin is still very thin, but is now protected by vernix caseosa.
• Hearing is now developed enough that it can perceive your voice or music.
  
  

Your body at 17 weeks pregnant:

• Your uterus is now noticeably larger and is positioned roughly at the level of your belly button.
• Many pregnant women experience back or groin pain, which is caused by the stretching of the round ligaments.
• Your skin may feel rosier and fresher due to improved blood circulation.
• Your weight may now also increase continuously – this is completely normal and important for your baby's development.
  
  
  

Development of the baby in the 17th week of pregnancy

In the 17th week of pregnancy, roughly halfway through the fifth month, your baby continues to take shape and increasingly resembles a little human. The head is now more proportionally formed in relation to the body, and the arms and legs are fully developed. The nervous system is particularly active during this phase – sensory perception increases, and the baby can detect 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 like a natural fatty barrier that protects the baby in the amniotic fluid.

Additionally, your child is beginning to develop fat reserves – also known as baby fat – which will keep them warm after birth. This development is a completely natural and important process for regulating their own body temperature after leaving the womb.

Perhaps you can now feel a gentle fluttering in your baby bump – 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 increasingly noticeable in the 17th week of pregnancy. The uterus continues to grow into the abdominal cavity and may press on other organs such as the stomach, bladder, or intestines. This can lead to typical symptoms such as heartburn, frequent urge to urinate, or a slight feeling of pressure in the abdominal area.

At the same time, you may notice an increase in appetite – this is completely normal, as your body now needs more energy for your baby’s ongoing growth. Gaining small fat pads or deposits is nothing unusual. They will later serve as an energy source, for example, for the production of breast milk after the birth.

The circulatory system is also working harder: your heart pumps more blood through your body to provide you and your baby with optimal care. Many women report experiencing calf cramps, back pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen during this time – typical side effects caused by stretched ligaments and muscles.

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

By the way: Remember to consider recommended vaccinations during pregnancy – it’s best to discuss this with your doctor. Good preparation can help protect your baby even before birth.

The pram you've always wanted.

Tips for the 17th week of pregnancy

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

Frequently Asked Questions about the 17th Week of Pregnancy

Can I feel my baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

Perhaps – the first movements of the baby often feel like a gentle fluttering in the lower abdomen. In the womb, your baby is now becoming increasingly active.

How big is the baby at 17 weeks pregnant?

The foetus is approximately 12–13 cm long and weighs about 150 g – about the size of a pear. The first fat deposits are also starting to form.

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

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

What should I watch out for in week 17 of pregnancy?

Pay attention to good nutrition in order to build up fat reserves for the production of breast milk, and take minor complaints such as constipation seriously.

What helps with back pain in the 17th week of pregnancy?

Movement, warmth and relieving the circulatory system help. Often, the growth of the uterus and the stretching of the ligaments in the lower abdomen are the cause.

What is developing in the baby during week 17 of pregnancy?

The face is becoming clearer: eyes, nose, mouth, and sexual organs continue to take shape. The senses are also steadily maturing.

Can my baby hear in the 17th week of pregnancy?

Yes, it perceives its 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 of pregnancy?

Yes. Body temperature is often elevated – a typical hormonal side effect during this month of pregnancy.

How can I involve my family or friends?

Tell your friends or family about your experiences, and perhaps even start your first conversations about a name for your baby.

When can the gender be identified?

Between the 17th and 20th week of pregnancy, the gender can usually be determined via ultrasound – ask your doctor at your next appointment.

What is my baby doing with their thumb in week 17 of pregnancy?

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

Are there common problems in week 17 of pregnancy?

Classic problems are constipation, haemorrhoids or circulatory issues – all normal, but still something you can discuss with your doctor.

What happens to the umbilical cord in week 17 of pregnancy?

The umbilical cord grows along and supplies your child with everything it needs to live in the womb – nutrients, oxygen and warmth.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

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