Week 17 of Pregnancy
You're officially in the second trimester groove. This week, your baby is growing rapidly, your belly is more pronounced, and you may start feeling flutters of movement soon. Your body is adjusting, and so is your energy, many begin to feel more like themselves again.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a pomegranate.
Baby’s Development at 17 weeks
Fat is forming
Your baby is developing layers of fat that will help with temperature regulation after birth.
Cartilage is hardening into bone
The skeleton is beginning to strengthen and harden into real bone tissue.
Movements are more coordinated
Your baby's arms and legs begin as tiny paddles that will lengthen and grow into limbs. The backbone extends into a small tail that will disappear within a few weeks.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 17
-
As your uterus stretches, you might feel sharp or dull pain in your lower belly or groin, especially when standing up quickly. This is common and usually harmless but can be uncomfortable.
-
The growing weight of your uterus and changes in posture may cause strain on your back. Using a pregnancy pillow or practicing good posture can help ease the discomfort.
-
You might notice more milky-white discharge, which helps prevent infections. If it changes in color or has a strong odor, be sure to check in with your provider.
-
Your feet or hands may start to swell slightly due to increased blood volume and fluid retention. Stay hydrated and elevate your feet when possible for relief.
Pregnancy checklist at 17weeks pregnant
-
If you haven’t yet, discuss mid-pregnancy screening or anatomy scans with your provider. These tests help check baby’s growth and development.
-
As your bump grows, comfortable and supportive clothing will become more important. Consider stretchy pants, loose tops, and supportive bras.
-
Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help relieve discomfort and prepare your body for birth. Always check in with your provider before starting new routines.
-
Whether it’s a photo, a journal entry, or a note to your baby, now is a great time to start recording the memories of your journey.
17 Weeks Pregnant Belly
Your belly is more noticeable now, and maternity clothes might be your new go-to for comfort. The top of your uterus is sitting just below your belly button, and as baby grows, you might begin to feel some gentle flutters, also called "quickening", if you haven’t already. This is an exciting week where your pregnancy begins to feel more real with visible and felt changes.
Tips & Resources
Support for Discomfort: Use pillows to support your belly and back while sleeping. A full-body pregnancy pillow can reduce pressure on your hips and help you sleep better.
Connect With Your Baby: Play soft music, sing, or talk to your bump. Your baby may begin to hear sounds now, and this helps form early bonding.
Hydration & Nutrition Check: Drink plenty of water and check that you’re getting enough iron and calcium in your diet. This helps with blood volume expansion and bone growth.
Free Resource – Third Trimester Pregnancy Tip Sheet: Even though you're in the second trimester, it’s never too early to start preparing for the next phase. Download this free guide to get ahead on what’s to come!