Week 17: Your Baby Grows Stronger
Your baby is now about the size of a turnip.
Avg. Length: 12 cm
(Crown to Rump)
Your Baby This Week
Your baby is building up fat and is now covered with vernix, a white, protective coating. Toenails and fingernails are growing, and the baby is more active with rolling, flipping, and occasional hiccups. Baby can react to loud noises, move their eyes, and open and close their mouth.
Your Body This Week
You're probably hungrier, as your appetite returns. Your womb is growing and you may look more obviously pregnant. You might feel dizziness if you stand up too fast, and as your uterus grows, you may find it harder to sleep comfortably.
Tips for Your Partner
Be her support system for physical discomforts like leg cramps or dizziness. You can help by massaging her calves or encouraging her to rest. A great way to connect is by joining her in healthy eating. Stocking the kitchen with nutritious snacks helps you both stay on track.
References
[1]
Fetal Development: Week-by-Week Stages of Pregnancy - Cleveland Clinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
[2]
Fetal development: The second trimester - Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20046151
[3]
17 weeks pregnant guide - Best Start in Life - NHShttps://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/2nd-trimester/week-17/
[4]
Your Pregnancy Week by Week: Weeks 17-20 - WebMDhttps://www.webmd.com/baby/your-pregnancy-week-by-week-weeks-17-20
[5]
Leg cramps during pregnancy: Preventable? - Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/leg-cramps-during-pregnancy/faq-20057766