Everything you need to know about week 25 of pregnancy

25th week of pregnancy (25 weeks pregnant)

Welcome to the 25th week of pregnancy! You are now in the sixth month of your pregnancy – and you may notice more clearly than ever: your baby is getting stronger, not only in terms of head and body growth, but also in its movements. Little kicks, turns or even hiccups are now part of everyday life for many expectant mothers.

Week 25 of pregnancy is an exciting stage on the journey into life – with every movement, your baby is preparing for its time outside the womb. You are now very much a part of this little world, where practice contractions, such as Braxton Hicks contractions, can already occur – a completely normal trial run for your body.

You may now find yourself needing breaks more often – something that is completely understandable. The growing bump is pressing on your stomach, which can be a cause of tiredness, heartburn, or a feeling of fullness. The number of new impressions, physical signals and thoughts is also increasing – a good example of how intensely your body and emotions are preparing for the birth.

The 25th week of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby at 25 weeks pregnant:

• Size: approx. 33–34 cm, weight: about 700–800 g
• The lungs continue to develop alveoli, surfactant production increases
• The nervous system is becoming more complex, your baby can interpret light and sounds better.
• It trains breathing, grasp reflexes and muscle tension – initial coordination develops
• The skin becomes smoother and less transparent due to increasing fatty tissue.
  
  

Your body at 25 weeks pregnant:

• Your uterus now extends to about two finger widths above your belly button.
• You continue to gain weight – usually about 6–8 kg since the beginning of the pregnancy.
• Calf cramps, shortness of breath, back pain or hot flushes are typical companions
• Your breasts may produce more colostrum – a sign that your body is preparing for breastfeeding.
  
  

Development of the baby in the 25th week of pregnancy

In the 25th week of pregnancy, your baby continues to develop in leaps and bounds. Measuring around 34 cm from crown to heel and weighing approximately 750 g, it now resembles a small pumpkin – and is getting stronger by the day.

Particularly exciting: The lungs are now forming more and more alveoli. The production of surfactant, a substance vital for breathing after birth, is picking up pace. Although your baby is not yet breathing air, it is diligently practising breathing movements to be ready later on.

The nervous system is also becoming more interconnected. Stimuli such as light, loud noises or movement are perceived with increasing clarity – and your baby's hearing is now so well developed that they can recognise familiar voices and respond to them.

His skin is gradually becoming smoother and less transparent due to growing layers of fat – the typical “wrinkly phase” is slowly coming to an end. At the same time, hair, eyelashes and eyebrows continue to grow.

Your baby is now regularly practising muscle tension, grasp reflexes, and coordination: it stretches, reaches for the umbilical cord, or even puts its thumb in its mouth. Hiccups, which you might feel as rhythmic tapping, are also part of this training programme.

Your body at 25 weeks pregnant

At the start of the 25th week of pregnancy, you will feel the physical changes more strongly than ever. Your uterus has grown further and now reaches roughly halfway between your navel and breastbone. Your baby bump is becoming rounder and more prominent – you are now carrying your little miracle clearly visible in front of you.

Typical pregnancy complaints such as calf cramps, heartburn, shortness of breath or even hot flushes may now occur more frequently. Your circulation is under a lot of strain – after all, your heart is pumping significantly more blood through your body than before pregnancy.

Many women also report restless sleep, frequent urination or a slight pulling sensation in the lower abdomen. The breasts continue to change as well: the milk glands are active, and in some expectant mums, colostrum (pre-milk) is already leaking out.

Your skin – especially on your belly, breasts and hips – is now under a lot of strain. Caring for it with rich oils can soothe feelings of tightness and help prevent stretch marks. Also make sure to wear comfortable clothing and allow yourself plenty of rest to support your wellbeing.

By the way: The increasing weight of your baby and your changed posture can lead to back pain. Regular exercise, gentle yoga for pregnant women, or a support belt can be very helpful here.

The pram you've always wanted.

Tips for the 25th week of pregnancy

• 🧘‍♀️ Exercise for Back & Circulation: Gentle exercise such as pregnancy yoga, walks or swimming promotes circulation, helps prevent back pain and gets your circulation going.
• 🛌 Improve sleep: If you have trouble falling asleep, try using a nursing pillow for support or preferably lie on your left side – this relieves your circulation and your back.
• 🥬 Don’t forget iron: In the 25th week of pregnancy, your iron requirement increases significantly. Choose foods such as beetroot, spinach, and pulses – when combined with vitamin C, absorption is improved.
• 💧 Preventing calf cramps: Magnesium-rich food, drinking plenty of water, and evening stretching can alleviate or even prevent calf cramps.
• 🤰 Abdominal care & relief: Care for your belly with high-quality oils to relieve feelings of tightness. A belly band can also help to support your back and connective tissue.
• 🧾 Paperwork & Preparation: Gently prepare yourself for the birth: for example, by attending information evenings, talking with your midwife, or starting to put together a small checklist for your hospital bag or parental allowance.
  
  
  
  

The most frequently asked questions about the 25th week of pregnancy

What happens in the seventh month of pregnancy?

From the 25th week of pregnancy, the seventh month begins – your baby is gaining weight and its senses are continuing to develop.

How does hearing develop in the 25th week of pregnancy?

Your child's hearing is working well – they can recognise voices in the womb and even respond to music or a torch.

How big and heavy is the baby in week 25 of pregnancy?

Your baby weighs about 700–800 grams, measures approximately 33–34 cm, and continues to develop fat stores, the skeleton, and internal organs.

Can premature labour occur from the 25th week of pregnancy onwards?

Yes, practice contractions are possible. If you experience regular pressure or pain, please seek medical advice to rule out a premature birth.

What does the gynaecologist say about the chances of survival for premature babies?

A premature baby from the 25th week of pregnancy onwards has realistic chances of survival with good care – the organs are functional, but immature.

What are typical symptoms during this week?

Typical symptoms: water retention, back pain, heartburn, tired legs or the feeling of less space in the abdomen.

How does the body change from week 25 of pregnancy onwards?

The uterus continues to grow, leading to weight gain and sometimes stretching in the spine or stomach area.

What does my baby look like at 25 weeks pregnant?

The skin becomes smoother due to fat, the eyes will open soon, the blood vessels are still visible – the colour will change later.

When does maternity leave begin?

Maternity protection officially starts 6 weeks before the birth. Different rules apply in the case of premature babies – check this with your doctor or midwife.

What thoughts are many pregnant women dealing with right now?

Topics such as relaxation, life with a baby, hospital bag, or the first encounter with the unborn child are now on the minds of many women.

How can I relax well in week 25 of pregnancy?

Gentle movement, mindful pauses, and breathing exercises promote relaxation. Your body now needs deliberate periods of rest.

What to do if you have worries during pregnancy?

Talk to your doctor or midwife. Every thought, every worry is normal – seek trustworthy answers to your questions.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

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