Second trimester · 17 weeks pregnant
Week 17: building fat
Fat stores begin and the umbilical cord gets stronger.
Your baby starts laying down fat, which will help with warmth and energy after birth. Sweat glands develop, the umbilical cord thickens and the heartbeat is now regulated by the brain.
Size and weight
About the size of
a pear
Length
13 cm
Weight
140 g
Averages from standard growth charts. Measured crown to rump until week 20 and head to heel afterwards.
How your baby is developing
- Body fat begins to form under the skin.
- The umbilical cord grows thicker and stronger.
- Sweat glands develop and the skeleton continues turning from cartilage to bone.
- Sucking and swallowing reflexes are practised with amniotic fluid.
How you may feel
- A big appetite
- Itchy skin on the belly and breasts
- Dizziness when standing
- Round ligament pain
- Snoring and stuffy nose
Lying flat on your back for long periods can make you feel faint later in pregnancy; prop yourself up or lie on your side.
What's next
Tests and appointments
No routine tests this week. Keep taking your vitamins and contact your polyclinic with any concerns.
What to do this week
- Eat regular protein (eggs, beans, fish, poultry) and iron with vitamin C.
- Drink about two litres of fluid a day, more in hot weather or when exercising.
- Use a pregnancy pillow or a folded blanket between your knees to sleep more comfortably.
Call your doctor or maternity hospital if
- Any vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
- Regular, painful tightenings or period-like cramps
- A severe headache, blurred vision, or sudden swelling of your face and hands
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, or pain when you pass urine
If something feels wrong, trust yourself and call 103 or your maternity hospital. You will never be wasting anyone's time.
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