Pregnancy Calendar at Week 17
What's Happening with the Baby
At 17 weeks of pregnancy, the baby's back and neck muscles start to contract. Because of this, the baby's head lifts and takes on an almost vertical position (previously, the neck was bent, and the chin was pressed against the chest). The arms fully bend at the elbows, and the fingers are mostly clenched into fists, only occasionally straightening out.
The baby begins to develop subcutaneous fat – both white and brown fat start to accumulate. The brown fat will help the baby maintain body temperature and avoid getting cold after birth. Sweat glands also start to form in the baby's skin.
The baby's weight at 17 weeks of pregnancy is 160 grams (comparable to the size of a pear), and the baby reaches 18 cm in length.
The baby's milk teeth are covered with dentin (the dense tissue of the tooth), and permanent teeth begin to form underneath them.
By the 17th week, the formation of the heart's conduction system is complete. This allows the heart to now function autonomously, meaning it can operate independently of signals from the brain.
The bronchi, which formed earlier, start to branch into thin canals that end in future alveoli (small sacs at the ends of the bronchi). Now, the baby's respiratory organs look like a bunch of branches with "clusters of berries" at the ends.
What's Happening with Mom
Pregnant women notice that they need to urinate more frequently. For some women, this disrupts their ability to get a full night's sleep due to frequent trips to the bathroom. This is primarily due to the enlarged uterus.
Uterus
The condition of the uterus is monitored as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, but direct measurements start a bit later. At 17 weeks, the uterus can be felt about 1.5–2 inches below the belly button. The height of the uterine fundus is measured upwards from the pubic bone – this number is now approaching 17 cm. From 17 weeks, the uterus grows more upwards, pushing other internal organs aside in the process. Because of this, the expectant mother may experience discomfort and pain, frequent urination, heartburn, and shortness of breath. She will also need to find the most comfortable sleeping position, as sleeping on the stomach is no longer possible due to the significant pressure on the uterus. Sleeping on the back is also not recommended because, in this position, the uterus compresses the vena cava, thereby restricting blood flow to the baby.
Belly
By week 17, the belly usually becomes more rounded, and people around you might start to notice it. But don't worry if it's not that noticeable in your case – it's likely that your belly is positioned too low and will become noticeable soon, or the baby is positioned towards the back wall of the uterus. Right now, very important processes are happening in your belly, as the baby is growing and acquiring new skills. Around week 17, pregnant women often start to feel the baby's movements. Sometimes, there might be a slight heaviness in the belly – this is because the uterus is growing rapidly. From this period on, the belly will continue to grow, and you can start using special creams to prevent stretch marks.
You might occasionally experience nosebleeds or bleeding gums. This happens because by week 17, blood circulation increases, and the load on small blood vessels significantly rises, causing them to sometimes "give in" to the pressure.
Discharge
Sometimes, expectant mothers might notice bloody discharge accompanied by lower abdominal and back pain, which indicates a risk of miscarriage. In this case, it is necessary to call an ambulance immediately.
In addition to bloody discharge, there may be gray, cottage cheese-like, with streaks of blood, greenish tint, mixed with clots and blood – such discharge is a sign of some kind of illness. If you notice these symptoms, you should see a doctor.
Brown or light pink discharge can also be a signal of a miscarriage. Only a doctor can determine the exact cause of their appearance and prescribe treatment. However, there can also be completely harmless discharge at this stage – they are clear or whitish, without any unusual odor.
Pain
Most of the pain at 17 weeks is caused by the stretching of the uterine ligaments. The pain occurs in the lower abdomen and is similar to menstrual cramps. The nature of the pain can constantly change, from a dull ache to sharp twinges and tingling with movements, turns, or changes in position. When experiencing such pain, try to avoid sudden movements, move smoothly, and if the pain intensifies, take a break and allow your muscles to relax. Be prepared that as the uterus expands, you may also experience pain in your lower back, tailbone, or back. The only thing that can alleviate the pain is moderate physical activity, wearing comfortable shoes without heels, and not staying in one position for too long, especially if you have a desk job; make sure to stand up from time to time. However, a burning sensation and pain during urination require medical attention, as this is one of the main signs that you may have developed an infection in your urinary system.
Veins on the Chest
Some pregnant women notice that their chest gradually becomes covered with a network of veins: don't worry, this is completely normal and will go away after you stop breastfeeding. Sometimes additional "bumps" appear around the nipples – this is also completely natural.
Many expectant moms start to feel a bit clumsy and notice that their movements aren't as fluid as they used to be. This is due to the shift in their center of gravity caused by the extra weight and growing belly.
Some pregnant women experience occasional calf muscle cramps. It's a good idea to mention this to your prenatal care provider, as it could be a sign that your body is lacking certain minerals or that you might benefit from a massage.
Development of Twins
Starting from the 15th week of pregnancy, the expectant mother's belly begins to grow, and by the 17th week, it might already be larger than that of a woman carrying a single baby at the same stage. By the 17th week, the hearing organ is fully developed. It clearly distinguishes the outer ear – the "sound catcher," the middle ear – the sound conductor, and the inner ear – the sound transformer into a nerve impulse that the brain perceives. Now the babies start to hear, so future parents of twins should not only talk to their little ones but also listen to music together and try to avoid shouting and arguments.
Medical Examination
Doctors
- A consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist is necessary if a pregnant woman has any complaints.
Tests
- The second trimester screening, also known as the triple test, is mandatory. It is essential for examining the fetus and timely detecting any pathologies, including chromosomal ones, which are the most common cause of missed miscarriages.
- The "Triple Test" is aimed at identifying fetal developmental defects. Blood is drawn from a vein to determine the levels of hCG, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and unconjugated estriol (E3). The results of the examination are evaluated comprehensively to accurately determine the risk of developmental anomalies in the baby. The result is presented as a specific number, which helps assess the risk of pathologies. This number depends on the age and weight of the pregnant woman, her physical health, the results of other tests, and the number of previous pregnancies, births, abortions, and miscarriages. This test is conducted between the 16th and 20th weeks. If it wasn't done at 16 weeks, it can be done now.
Examinations
- Ultrasound – At 17 weeks, mom and dad can already find out the baby's gender if the little one decides to turn the "right" way. However, the ultrasound at this stage is not performed for this purpose, but rather to determine the overall condition of the fetus and the functioning of its internal organs, to check if the characteristics match the gestational age, and to assess the fetus's motor activity. They also evaluate the amount of amniotic fluid and the condition of the uterine myometrium, as well as the absence of pathological changes. However, if the pregnancy is progressing normally, the doctor usually won't schedule an ultrasound at this stage.
Pregnancy Challenges
The 17th week of pregnancy can lead to various complications for both the woman and the baby.
TORCH Infections
This medical term encompasses rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes, and other infectious pathologies that disrupt normal fetal development. These infections pose a risk when a woman is initially infected during pregnancy or when a chronic infection flares up during this time. If an acute TORCH infection is detected, termination of the pregnancy is recommended to prevent miscarriage or developmental defects in the baby. Women with chronic infectious diseases are advised to take preventive measures, including timely vaccination when planning to conceive.
Missed Miscarriage
This occurs with acute infectious diseases and chromosomal abnormalities. It is characterized by the cessation of fetal development due to adverse factors. A missed miscarriage is identified by a specialist through the examination of the uterus size, which does not correspond to the gestational age. Ultrasound and fetal heart auscultation can reveal the absence of a heartbeat. The woman may complain of pelvic pain and bloody vaginal discharge.
Fetal Demise with Miscarriage
At 17 weeks, it is rare. The main causes of miscarriage are increased uterine tone, acute respiratory and heart failure in the woman, or abdominal trauma. The pregnant woman feels a strong pulling pain in the pelvic area and lower back. This is accompanied by heavy bloody discharge. If these symptoms appear, you should call an ambulance team, as self-treatment is unacceptable.
Placental Abruption
It manifests as sharp abdominal pain that radiates to the lower back. The woman experiences intrauterine bleeding, characterized by blood discharge from the vagina. Placental abruption is an indication for emergency hospitalization to provide urgent therapy.
Cystitis and Other Urinary Tract Infections
These develop due to impaired urine flow from the renal pelvis. This creates favorable conditions for bacterial growth. The woman experiences frequent urination, pain in the lower back or pelvic area, as well as symptoms of intoxication: fever, general weakness, etc. Treatment involves taking antibacterial medications as prescribed by a doctor.
Possible Deviations from the Norm:
- Cystitis;
- Pyelonephritis;
- Placenta previa (complete, partial, low-lying).
What You Can and Can't Do
Pregnancy requires women to follow certain lifestyle and dietary recommendations. This helps prevent complications at 17 weeks of gestation and improves the well-being of the expectant mother.
What an Expectant Mom CAN Do:
- Engage in regular exercise. Heavy physical activities should be avoided. Special classes for pregnant women, available in some gyms, are ideal;
- Attend massage sessions. It's best to choose specialists who work with pregnant women;
- Take evening walks in parks, alleys, etc. Such walks improve overall well-being and boost the immune system;
- Eat fresh vegetables, fruits, berries, and nuts. These foods are rich in beneficial components: vitamins, trace elements, and biologically active substances. This improves health and prevents internal organ diseases;
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep every day. Quality sleep in comfortable conditions positively affects the pregnant woman's body;
- Perform exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. This includes Kegel exercises and others;
- If there are no contraindications, engage in sexual activity. Positive emotions and improved relationships with the partner are the reasons for this recommendation.
What an Expectant Mom CAN'T Do:
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs. These bad habits are common factors in the development of birth defects and other pregnancy complications;
- Undergoing X-ray examinations, such as chest fluorography or abdominal CT scans;
- Using medications without consulting a doctor. Many drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy;
- Sleeping on your back or stomach. Lying on your back or stomach can impair uterine blood flow, leading to hypoxia for the developing baby;
- Visiting a tattoo parlor or getting permanent makeup. These procedures carry a risk of infection with diseases like hepatitis B or HIV;
- Engaging in heavy sports, lifting weights, or long-distance running;
- Having close contact with pets, especially cats, which can carry toxoplasmosis;
- Following any diets or fasting. Dietary restrictions should only be recommended by your doctor if there are medical indications;
- Taking various dietary supplements without consulting an obstetrician-gynecologist. Supplements can affect fetal development and may cause pregnancy complications.
Proper Nutrition
Throughout your pregnancy, it's essential to maintain a well-balanced and healthy diet.
- Pay special attention to protein-rich foods, but don't forget about carbohydrates and healthy fats.
- Fruits and vegetables should also be a part of your daily diet.
- It's best to cook food in a gentle way (like steaming), and make sure all products are fresh and natural.
- Avoid spicy, acidic, smoked, fried, and salty dishes, as well as carbonated drinks and coffee.
- Eat small portions, but frequently. Ideally, switch to 5-6 meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a few snacks.
- Don't go hungry: your baby is growing and needs a sufficient amount of nutrients.
- If you experience heartburn, it's better to eat porridge and soups, and drink broth.
- Drink up to 1.5-2 liters of fluids a day. Avoid coffee, black tea, carbonated drinks, and citrus juices, as they can irritate your urinary tract and cause frequent urination. Opt for still mineral water, fruit drinks, and juices instead.
During the 17th week, expectant moms should include beneficial fatty acids in their diet. These acids improve the appearance and condition of skin, hair, and nails, and they also stimulate lactation after childbirth. Additionally, omega-3 acids support the proper growth and development of the baby. Fish, avocados, and nuts are particularly rich in these important elements.
Need for Vitamins and Micronutrients
The body of a pregnant woman and her fetus at 17 weeks of gestation requires an intake of minerals and vitamins through food. Nutrition should not only be based on the principles of a proper diet but also be varied. A doctor or dietitian can help determine the need for vitamins and micronutrients.
Essential Vitamins for Pregnant Women
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
The primary antioxidant in the human body. It helps oxygenate and nourish cells while protecting them from damaging factors. Tocopherol reduces inflammation and prevents blood clots. Gynecologists believe that getting enough Vitamin E during pregnancy can lower the risk of miscarriages. It is found in vegetable oils, grains, bran, nuts, peas, spinach, eggs, milk, and more.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Necessary for normal cellular and tissue metabolism. It ensures the proper formation of the placenta and the musculoskeletal system of the fetus during intrauterine development. It is abundant in butter, cream, dairy products, beef liver, egg yolks, vegetables, and greens.
B Vitamins
Ensure a healthy pregnancy, and the formation of the baby's internal organs and nervous system. A deficiency can lead to general weakness in the pregnant woman and frequent infections.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Regulates blood pressure, maintaining it at a physiological level during pregnancy.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Supports liver cell function, preventing damage and functional disorders.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Regulates fat metabolism by influencing cholesterol and lipoprotein levels in the blood. This helps prevent the development of atherosclerosis.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Acts as a regulator of the endocrine system for both the pregnant woman and the developing baby, particularly the thyroid gland and adrenal glands. These organs produce essential hormones (thyroxine, mineralocorticoids, etc.) crucial for the development of the brain and internal organs during the embryonic period.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Essential for the formation of the central nervous system in the child.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Ensures the healthy condition of the skin, nails, and hair of the pregnant woman.
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Plays a role in the absorption of folic acid. This is an indispensable substance during pregnancy, and its deficiency can lead to developmental abnormalities in the child. B vitamins are abundant in grains, whole grain products, yeast, nuts, vegetables (beets, potatoes, tomatoes, etc.), eggs, fish, seafood, fruits, and berries.
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
The essential vitamin during pregnancy. It ensures the formation of the brain and spinal cord, the hematopoietic system, and is indispensable for the maturation of the placenta. Folic acid is found in beef liver, cod liver, parsley, spinach, leafy lettuce, cabbage, asparagus, nuts, cheese, cottage cheese, yeast, and seeds of various plants.
Vitamin K – a group of fat- and water-soluble vitamins.
It is involved in protein formation and the functioning of the hemostasis system. A deficiency in this vitamin disrupts calcium metabolism, as it regulates its interaction with calciferol. It is necessary during pregnancy. Found in spinach, onions, green tea, cabbage, bran, milk, eggs, and soy.
Vitamin D (calciferol)
It regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, as well as the formation of bone tissue and teeth. It prevents the development of rickets and stimulates the immune system. It is found in large quantities in animal-based foods: fish oil, cod liver, other fish and animals, eggs, milk, and dairy products.
Essential Trace Elements for Pregnant Women
Iodine
This trace element is crucial for the development of the baby's thyroid gland. A deficiency increases the risk of miscarriage and brain development abnormalities. Pregnant women can get iodine from fish, cod liver, iodized salt, and seaweed.
Selenium
Selenium plays a role in the formation of the baby's musculoskeletal system. Without it, there can be developmental issues, as well as abnormalities in the thyroid gland and reproductive organs of the newborn. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant, comparable to vitamin E in its activity, which helps prevent cell and tissue damage in the baby. Selenium-rich foods include fish, meat products, and nuts.
Iron
Iron is necessary to maintain normal hemoglobin levels. A decrease in iron can lead to anemia, causing fetal hypoxia, which negatively affects development. Iron is also involved in the formation of the placenta, so a deficiency can lead to premature birth. This mineral is found in beef liver, meat and kidneys, fish and seafood, legumes, buckwheat, oatmeal, tomatoes, cherries, apricots, blueberries, apples, and more.
Copper
A trace element involved in blood formation and metabolism processes. Its daily intake level should be comparable to that of iron. A deficiency of this trace element in a child can disrupt the formation of connective tissue and blood vessels, and increase the risk of developing abnormalities in the structure of internal organs. Seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and oysters, are rich in copper. The mineral is also found in large quantities in nuts, parsley, blackberries, and pineapples.
Zinc
It participates in metabolism, the formation of hormones, nucleic acids, and proteins. In its absence, a child's development of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, as well as the musculoskeletal system, is impaired. Adequate zinc intake in a pregnant woman helps prevent prolonged pregnancy. This trace element can be obtained from meat, fish, egg yolks, seafood, cheese, legumes, nuts, and spinach.
Magnesium
It protects nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) with genetic material from damage, preventing mutations. The mineral is essential for the normal functioning of the heart, blood vessels, and endocrine system organs. Women who receive sufficient magnesium are less prone to stress and depression. It is found in various foods: nuts, plant seeds, bran, legumes, grains, watermelon, berries, dried fruits, greens, and so on.
Calcium
Essential for the proper formation and maturation of bone structures, as well as the nervous and cardiovascular systems. In its absence, pregnant women may develop osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders, tooth decay, anemia, and low blood pressure. Foods rich in calcium include eggs, fish, cabbage, garlic, celery, pasta, and whole grain baked goods, dill, and other plants.
Important! Choose a multivitamin complex based on your obstetrician-gynecologist's recommendation.
Helpful Tips
If you're experiencing frequent urination, try to drink most of your fluids in the first half of the day, and drink as little as possible a couple of hours before bedtime.
If you experience a burning sensation while urinating, pain in the lower abdomen or lower back, or a fever, see a doctor as soon as possible – these could be symptoms of cystitis or pyelonephritis.
If you get a nosebleed, don't panic. Tilt your head forward and apply ice or something cold to the bridge of your nose for a few minutes. But if the bleeding doesn't stop, go see a doctor.
If you have increased gum bleeding, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and avoid spicy, salty, and pickled foods that can irritate your mouth. If your gums bleed constantly, visit a dentist.
Choose comfortable shoes with heels no higher than 1.5 inches and with non-slip soles. This will help prevent injuries.
If you get a calf muscle cramp, pull your toes towards you, then release the tension and repeat with a bit more force. Once the muscle relaxes, massage your calf (moving from the foot towards the knee). Then, to restore circulation, walk around the room slowly for a few minutes, and then lie down in a comfortable position. If cramps occur more frequently, consult a doctor.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
Starting from the second trimester, physical activity can actually be beneficial for pregnant women. Of course, this is assuming there are no specific restrictions or risks to the baby: it's important to consult with your doctor who is overseeing your pregnancy, and also inform your trainer about your special condition to create a new workout plan.
All exercises that involve the abdominal muscles are off-limits to avoid the risk of miscarriage, as well as exercises that require lying on your back (due to the increased pressure of the uterus on the pelvic organs).
However, walking (especially outdoor walks for at least 45 minutes each day), swimming, and participating in special pregnancy exercise groups are recommended.
Discomforts During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman faces various health issues, ranging from endocrine system disorders to frequent infections.
Acute Respiratory Infections of Viral and Bacterial Nature
These occur due to a weakened immune system. They pose a threat to the baby as they can lead to premature birth or developmental defects in internal organs. Self-treatment for infections during pregnancy is unacceptable. Pregnant women should seek medical help immediately. The doctor will conduct the necessary examinations and select an individual therapy that is safe during pregnancy.
Yeast Infection or Candidiasis, a Fungal Pathology
This condition is characterized by cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, itching, and burning in the lower abdomen. The fungal infection arises due to hormonal changes and a temporary decrease in immune activity. The treatment prescribed by the doctor is safe for the baby. Attempting self-treatment can cause the yeast infection to become chronic and may lead to unpleasant health consequences for the woman.
Cystitis –
Inflammatory damage to the mucous membrane of the bladder. It is characterized by pain during urination, which is accompanied by sharp or burning sensations. It does not affect the development of the baby. In the absence of treatment, bacteria can move to the renal pelvis, leading to pyelonephritis. Antibacterial agents approved for use during pregnancy are used in treatment.
Back pain in pregnant women arises due to increased load on the spine
It appears in the evening and intensifies with physical exercise or sudden movements of the torso. To alleviate the pain, doctors recommend consulting a certified massage therapist and engaging in physical therapy exercises approved for pregnancy.
Constipation and diarrhea
– develop as a result of the uterus pressing on the distal part of the large intestine. Changes in stool are temporary and cause discomfort to the woman. To address these issues, one should consult a doctor. Special treatment is not required. Digestive disturbances are managed with dietary supplements and changes in diet.
Varicose veins of the lower extremities
The increasing blood volume during pregnancy puts additional strain on the cardiovascular system, particularly the venous part. By the 17th week of pregnancy and beyond, women often develop spider veins on their legs and experience vein enlargement. A phlebologist specializes in treating these issues. Generally, the progression of the condition can be halted with properly fitted compression garments.
Checklist
- Give up bad habits. If your spouse smokes at home, talk to him about going out to the balcony: secondhand smoke is harmful to the baby!
- Normalize your daily routine: establish a consistent sleep schedule, spend at least 1.5–2 hours a day outdoors (pay special attention to walks before bedtime), and increase physical activity.
- Use various "reminders" and sticky notes, jot down thoughts, and make to-do lists to combat the traditional absentmindedness/forgetfulness of pregnancy.
- Start reading helpful books about baby development and care, with life hacks from experienced moms and recommendations from specialists.
- Create a baby shopping plan with your spouse and set up a "baby budget."
- If you haven't done so already, get some maternity loungewear – don't rely on oversized robes and your husband's T-shirts.