Pregnancy Calendar at Week 25
What's Happening with the Baby
By the 25th week of pregnancy, the baby starts to resemble a small pumpkin. Their body weight reaches about 1.5 pounds (700 grams), and their length is around 10 inches (25 cm). By this time, the baby flips head-down and back again, preparing for birth. The baby practices breathing by swallowing amniotic fluid, so by the 25th week, almost all babies start to hiccup.
At this stage, the production of surfactant begins – a substance that helps the lungs expand after birth and ensures respiratory function.
The baby's movements become stronger as their body weight and growth increase daily. The baby already has their own biological clock, which often doesn't match the mother's rhythm of life – when the woman lies down to rest, the baby starts to get active.
What's Happening with Mom
By the 25th week, a woman's condition becomes more stable as the risk of miscarriage drops to a minimum. Additionally, giving birth at this stage is not as dangerous because the baby already has a good chance of survival. However, it's still crucial to pay attention to your well-being. If you experience any complaints or discomfort, it's best to consult your gynecologist.
Uterine Condition
The shape of the uterus transitions from round to more elongated, and it continues to grow in size, which is now measured during each visit to the gynecologist. The height of the uterine fundus can roughly determine the gestational age and the baby's position.
Urination Patterns
The urge to urinate becomes more frequent. This is because the baby is getting bigger, and the volume of amniotic fluid increases daily, causing the uterus to press on the bladder. Many women experience nighttime urges to urinate by the 25th week.
Headaches
Headaches can be caused by fluctuations in blood pressure or increased fatigue. If the headache is severe enough to disrupt your daily routine and occurs regularly, you should definitely inform your doctor.
Lower Back Pain
The discomfort in the lower back is caused by the strain on the spine. As the uterus grows, the center of gravity shifts, and the expectant mother's gait changes. Prolonged walking, standing for long periods, and physical exertion inevitably lead to lower back pain.
Condition of the Breasts
The breasts continue to enlarge. By 25 weeks, stretch marks may already appear, so it's important to take proper care of the skin. After 25 weeks, some women may start to produce colostrum. It is secreted from the breasts in small amounts and visually resembles yellowish water. To keep this from being noticeable to others, it's necessary to use disposable breast pads.
Skin Pigmentation
By the 25th week, a line appears on the expectant mother's belly. Sometimes it can form earlier or later. Women may also notice localized pigmentation on their face. To reduce the likelihood of dark spots on the skin, it's important to spend less time in the sun and use sunscreen with a filter.
Swelling Formation
Swelling can be caused by various factors: venous insufficiency, excessive consumption of salty foods, arterial hypertension, and kidney pathologies. If this complaint arises, it's necessary to consult a gynecologist and undergo an examination. Some cases of swelling require serious treatment.
Vaginal Discharge
Normally, at 25 weeks, women experience light vaginal discharge. It has a light color, is odorless, and doesn't cause discomfort. After intimate relations, the amount of discharge may increase.
Bleeding
25 weeks marks the end of the second trimester of pregnancy. Normally, a woman should not experience vaginal bleeding. If brown or bright red discharge appears, it is crucial to urgently go to the maternity hospital or call an ambulance. Causes of bleeding can include cervical diseases, vaginal mucosal erosion, the onset of labor, or dangerous pregnancy complications.
Attitude Towards Food
Throughout the entire gestational period, a future mom's eating habits can change drastically. By 25 weeks, early toxemia has completely ended, and food aversions have passed. However, food cravings may still accompany the woman. At this stage, many women refuse meat and don't want to eat cottage cheese. Most expectant mothers crave sweets, salty foods, and baked goods. However, gynecologists do not approve of such a diet.
Weight Gain
Depending on lifestyle, dietary preferences, and physical activity, women gain weight differently. The initial body weight is also significant. By the 25th week, it is normal to gain between 9 to 18 pounds. The fuller the expectant mother was before pregnancy, the less weight she should gain.
Sex Life
If many women were cautious about intimacy in the early stages, by the 25th week, these fears usually subside. Since the risk of miscarriage at this stage is minimal and the belly is not yet causing significant discomfort, expectant mothers can maintain a sexual relationship. It's important to use barrier contraception methods, as there is a high risk of infection.
Emotional State
By the 25th week, a pregnant woman becomes calmer and more balanced. Emotional outbursts caused by hormonal changes occur less frequently. This period is considered the most favorable for the expectant mother's well-being: morning sickness is no longer an issue, and the baby's movements are not yet causing serious discomfort. There is an opportunity to focus on herself, travel, and take long walks.
Medical Examination
At 25 weeks of pregnancy, a woman will need to undergo a series of examinations. It's important not to skip these, as the results provide comprehensive information about the health of both the expectant mother and her baby.
Scheduled diagnostic procedures:
- Complete blood count – to monitor the overall condition of the body;
- Urinalysis – provides information about the functioning of the urinary system;
- Measurement of abdominal circumference and uterine height – indicates whether these measurements are consistent with the stage of pregnancy;
- Ultrasound – performed if there are abdominal pains, unusual discharge, or decreased fetal movement;
- Vaginal swab – done if there are complaints of unusual discharge.
Pregnancy Challenges
Even though the 25th week is generally considered calm and comfortable, expectant mothers may still face some difficulties.
Premature Cervical Dilation
This condition is accompanied by bloody discharge and pain. If detected in time, it can be corrected with a pessary or by stitching.
Preterm Labor
Preterm labor starts with contractions or the breaking of water. If caught early, it can be managed or delayed, with intensive care provided to the newborn if necessary.
Second-Half Pregnancy Toxemia
This condition is characterized by body swelling and high blood pressure. It requires hospitalization, symptomatic treatment, and specialist monitoring.
Placental Insufficiency
This condition results in inadequate nutrient and oxygen supply to the baby, leading to intrauterine growth restriction. Timely medical intervention is necessary to address this issue.
Urinary Tract Infections
These infections can be acute or chronic. They require examination and mandatory treatment, as they increase the risk of intrauterine infection.
What You Can and Can't Do
The 25th week is a relatively calm period for a pregnant woman. However, the expectant mother should not forget about her condition. It's essential to follow medical advice, regularly undergo medical check-ups, and pay attention to your well-being. If any questionable situations arise, consult your gynecologist.
What an Expectant Mom CAN Do:
- Engage in sports – it's better to opt for yoga, daily walking, swimming, or prenatal fitness;
- Take vitamins and supplements prescribed by your doctor – they help replenish missing nutrients and prevent complications;
- Move more, but with caution – physical activity helps prepare for childbirth and improves blood circulation in the pelvic area;
- Lift heavy objects carefully – to avoid straining your back, pick up awkward items by squatting rather than bending over;
- Undergo therapeutic and preventive procedures prescribed by your gynecologist – these aim to maintain good health and prevent complications;
- Have fun if you feel up to it – spending time with cheerful friends, going on trips, walks, and travels can be beneficial for the expectant mom.
What an Expectant Mom CAN'T Do:
- Eating junk food and drinking alcohol – this increases the load on the digestive and excretory systems and also negatively affects the baby;
- Engaging in heavy sports – excessive physical activity raises the tone of the uterus and can lead to premature labor;
- Taking medications on your own – even the simplest pills can negatively affect the baby, and it's also not recommended to treat yourself with herbs and dietary supplements;
- Making sudden movements – a quick change in position can cause a spike in blood pressure;
- Lifting heavy objects – if you need to pick up a child, you should put them down as soon as possible;
- Certain cosmetic procedures – permanent makeup, laser hair removal, and waxing the intimate area are off-limits;
- Being overly active if diagnosed with uterine tone, cervical insufficiency, the threat of premature labor, and other pregnancy pathologies.
Proper Nutrition
Healthy eating is the key to a future mom's well-being and the proper development of her baby. A varied and nutritious diet meets the daily requirement of nutrients and prevents distorted eating habits. Additionally, proper nutrition helps prevent excessive weight gain.
At 25 weeks, it is recommended to:
- Make protein the foundation of your diet. It helps build muscle mass rather than fat. Moreover, protein is the building block for the baby's cells, which is especially important from the 25th week. You can get it from lean meats, eggs, fish, seafood, lentils, and mushrooms.
- Include complex carbohydrates in your daily menu at 25 weeks. They replenish your energy reserves. You can get carbohydrates from cereals, whole wheat pasta, and whole grain bread.
- Ensure fat intake at 25 weeks to prepare tissues for childbirth and prevent tears. Healthy fats are just as important for the baby as they are for the mom. You can get them from nuts, vegetable oil, fish, dairy, and fermented milk products. Additionally, cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and milk are sources of calcium.
During pregnancy, including at 25 weeks, it's important to choose healthy and high-quality foods. It's best to go for seasonal vegetables and fruits, fresh meat and fish, whole grains, and fermented dairy products. Cooking at home is preferable, as it allows the expectant mother to ensure the quality and benefits of the food. Meat and animal products need to be well-cooked. Vegetables should be minimally cooked to retain their nutritional value.
Need for Vitamins and Minerals
By the 25th week, the baby's organs are already formed. They continue to grow and develop. For this, the baby needs a large amount of nutrients. The baby gets vitamins and minerals from the mother's body. The baby takes as much as possible, and this often leads to a deficiency of essential nutrients in the woman. As a result, health problems and complaints about her own well-being arise.
Vitamin B1
A deficiency in thiamine can cause uterine tone, memory deterioration, slowed fetal development at 25 weeks, and difficulty in transmitting genetic information. To replenish the daily amount, the following can help:
- carrots;
- cabbage;
- spinach;
- nuts;
- dried fruits;
- potatoes;
- sprouted grains.
Vitamin B2
A deficiency can cause placental insufficiency and impaired blood circulation between the baby and the mother. At 25 weeks, riboflavin is involved in the formation of red blood cells and helps prevent congenital anemia. With proper nutrition, it can be synthesized in the intestines of a pregnant woman. Additional portions can be obtained from:
- lean meat;
- river fish;
- chicken eggs;
- low-fat cottage cheese;
- homemade sour cream.
Vitamin B3
At 25 weeks of pregnancy, niacin ensures proper gas exchange between the baby and the placenta. This is a good prevention method for hypoxia and intrauterine growth retardation. You can get niacin from the following foods:
- red meat;
- fatty fish;
- liver and kidneys;
- chicken eggs;
- seafood.
Vitamin B5.
At the end of the second trimester, it ensures the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters. Pantothenic acid is necessary for proper regeneration processes. It is especially important for expectant mothers with low immunity and those who have recently had acute illnesses. Vitamin B5 is involved in the formation of innate immunity, which is crucial for the baby at 25 weeks. Sources of pantothenic acid include:
- green vegetables;
- cauliflower;
- poultry meat;
- lean beef;
- quail eggs;
- forest nuts.
Vitamin B6.
Pyridoxine is important for the functioning of the heart, vascular, nervous, and autonomic systems. At 25 weeks, this substance prevents premature aging of the placenta and the formation of calcifications. Adequate intake of vitamin B6 in a woman's body is a good prevention method for congenital vascular pathologies in the baby. Dietary sources include:
- grains;
- carrots;
- potatoes;
- tomatoes;
- greens;
- nuts;
- citrus fruits.
Vitamin B7
Essential at 25 weeks of pregnancy, especially for women who have gained excess weight. Biotin helps regulate blood sugar levels and insulin indicators. It's a good preventive measure against congenital diabetes for the baby. It also ensures proper calcium absorption, which is crucial for the development of the baby's musculoskeletal system. Sources include:
- liver;
- oranges;
- bananas;
- peas;
- fish;
- milk.
Vitamin B9
Known to expectant mothers from early pregnancy stages. At 25 weeks, it supports the development of the baby's brain as it plays an active role in the formation of new cells. Folic acid improves the condition of blood vessels and normalizes blood flow, preventing oxygen deprivation in the baby. Sources of this vitamin include:
- greens;
- vegetables;
- bananas;
- nuts;
- eggs;
- legumes.
Vitamin B12
At 25 weeks, the baby's nerve endings continue to form, and it's crucial for the mother to get enough cyanocobalamin. This substance protects nerve cells and prevents congenital diseases. By lowering harmful cholesterol levels, it also helps prevent vascular diseases. You can get vitamin B12 from:
- seafood;
- fish;
- eggs;
- chicken.
Vitamin A
While taking retinol is not recommended in the early stages of pregnancy, by 25 weeks the need for it significantly increases. This vitamin ensures the proper development of the baby's hearing and vision. A deficiency in vitamin A raises the risk of stillbirth. You can get extra retinol from:
- carrots;
- beets;
- greens;
- fish;
- cream;
- eggs;
- cheese.
Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid helps the expectant mother maintain a strong immune system throughout the entire gestational period. By 25 weeks, the need for it increases as the baby's lungs are actively preparing to perform their respiratory function. Vitamin C ensures proper metabolic processes in all the baby's tissues. Sources include:
- cabbage;
- parsley;
- lemon;
- grapefruit;
- oranges;
- raspberries.
Vitamin E
In the early stages of pregnancy, tocopherol helps maintain proper progesterone levels. By the 25th week, its role shifts to ensuring the placenta functions correctly. Additionally, vitamin E enhances the quality of hair, nails, and skin for the expectant mother. You can get your dose of tocopherol from the following foods:
- liver;
- oils;
- cottage cheese;
- eggs;
- milk;
- kefir;
- yogurt;
- caviar.
Vitamin D
This well-known fat-soluble vitamin is essential for children during fetal development and the first 2-3 years of life. A deficiency can lead to bone deformities and even rickets. Therefore, expectant mothers need to spend more time outdoors and consume the following foods:
- sea fish;
- low-fat cheeses;
- butter;
- egg yolks;
- liver and kidneys.
Vitamin K
The vitamin K group includes three substances – two natural and one synthetically produced. They all play a role in the proper formation of the circulatory system. Without vitamin K, women at 25 weeks may face venous thrombosis, most commonly in the lower extremities and placental vessels. Therefore, it's important to daily replenish vitamin K by consuming:
- fruits;
- vegetables;
- milk;
- yogurt;
- kefir;
- beef;
- poultry.
Magnesium
By the 25th week, every second pregnant woman is prescribed additional magnesium. A deficiency in this element can lead to cramps, including uterine spasms. The consequences of a magnesium deficiency can include premature labor, nervous breakdowns, and placental insufficiency. To avoid a magnesium deficiency, it's essential to include the following foods in your daily diet:
- nuts;
- grains;
- legumes;
- seeds;
- greens;
- vegetables;
- vegetable oils.
Potassium
Along with magnesium, potassium is often prescribed to expectant mothers. This combination of micronutrients is necessary for women who have heart problems, high or low blood pressure, frequent headaches, and cramps. Potassium ensures the proper functioning of blood vessels and blood pressure. At 25 weeks, it helps supply the fetus with essential nutrients and oxygen by regulating uteroplacental blood flow. Sources of potassium include:
- potatoes;
- spinach;
- melon;
- bananas;
- raisins;
- prunes;
- dried apricots.
Calcium
By the 25th week, the processes of forming the baby's systems and organs are complete. This is a time of active growth. The baby's musculoskeletal system increases daily. For this, an adequate amount of calcium is necessary. It can be obtained from the following foods:
- cheese;
- cottage cheese;
- milk;
- nuts;
- cereals;
- eggs;
- meat;
- shell.
Phosphorus
Besides calcium, a pregnant woman at 25 weeks needs phosphorus. The interaction between these trace elements ensures the normal development of bones, the formation of both baby and permanent teeth, and the proper formation of the future fontanelle. Sources of phosphorus include:
- fish;
- oysters;
- squid;
- nuts;
- cheese;
- seeds;
- meat;
- cottage cheese;
- eggs.
Cobalt
Helps prevent excessive weight gain in the expectant mother, which positively affects the baby's condition and makes the birthing process easier. At 25 weeks, cobalt can be obtained from foods such as:
- squid;
- fish;
- shrimp;
- sprats;
- eggs;
- cheese;
- poultry.
Chromium
Ensures the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. It is necessary at 25 weeks as it reduces the likelihood of developing hypo- and hyperthyroidism in the newborn. You can get your daily dose of chromium from:
- mushrooms;
- tomatoes;
- eggs;
- cheese;
- salads.
Sodium
Excessive amounts of sodium chloride can cause swelling and impair kidney function. However, a deficiency also leads to negative consequences, such as the development of cardiovascular and hematopoietic system pathologies. Therefore, at 25 weeks, it's important to continue consuming an adequate amount of table salt and remember that it is also found in many foods:
- water;
- cheese;
- bread;
- meat products.
Iron
A proper level of iron ensures good well-being for the woman and normal blood circulation for the baby. A deficiency of this element leads to weakness, apathy, and can cause hypoxia. Sources of iron include:
- beef;
- veal;
- organ meats;
- caviar;
- fish.
Copper
It participates in metabolic processes and ensures normal metabolism. A copper deficiency at 25 weeks can trigger obesity, placental dysfunction, and delayed embryo development. You can get this element from:
- buckwheat;
- oats;
- beef;
- veal;
- nuts.
Silicon
Important at 25 weeks as it improves the condition of blood vessels. Silicon ensures normal uteroplacental blood flow and helps prevent oxygen deprivation in the future baby. Sources of silicon include:
- oatmeal;
- corn;
- lentils;
- peas;
- beans.
Selenium
A natural antioxidant that positively impacts the health of both the mother and the future baby. Selenium helps remove toxic substances from the woman's body, which eases the work of the placenta and prevents its premature aging. You can get it from foods like:
- fish;
- bran;
- seeds;
- eggs;
- cottage cheese;
- cheese;
- garlic;
- lentils.
Zinc
Together with selenium, zinc ensures the proper development of the fetus at 25 weeks. It participates in metabolic processes, improves blood circulation, cleanses the body, and enhances the delivery of nutrients through the umbilical cord blood. Sources of zinc:
- garlic;
- almonds;
- sesame seeds;
- rice;
- shrimp.
Helpful Tips
Starting from week 25, there is a noticeable increase in the size of the belly and breasts. To prevent stretch marks, it's essential to choose the right skincare products – use nourishing oils and balms. To ease the strain on your back, it's important to wear comfortable shoes and take frequent breaks. You should also monitor the condition of your legs, as many women develop varicose veins after giving birth.
The future dad needs to take on some of the more challenging tasks – washing dishes, cleaning curtains, vacuuming, bathing the older kids, because the wife's belly will only get bigger, making it harder for her to do the usual household chores. Additionally, the expectant mom might occasionally feel unwell. It's crucial to pay attention to her well-being and provide her with moral support.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
If there are no contraindications, engaging in light exercise can be very beneficial for the expectant mother. You can sign up for training sessions with an instructor or perform exercises at home.
The main rules for physical activity:
- Ease – it's best to start with moderate walking, swimming, or gentle stretching;
- Short duration – begin with 10-20 minutes a day and increase the time if you feel good;
- Regularity – aim to exercise at least 2-3 times a week.
Resistance exercises, muscle stretching, and cardio workouts should be done after consulting with your doctor. At 25 weeks of pregnancy, it's crucial to ensure no harm is done, and only then focus on the benefits.
Discomforts During Pregnancy
Constipation
At 25 weeks, it's quite common. More than half of expectant moms complain about irregular bowel movements. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods high in fiber can help. If that doesn't work, your doctor may prescribe safe laxatives.
Headaches
Starting at 25 weeks, women might experience a heavy feeling in their heads. One of the more serious causes could be high blood pressure. Headaches during pregnancy are also linked to an increased volume of circulating blood and insufficient oxygen supply to the brain.
Abdominal Cramps
Practice contractions at 25 weeks are normal. It's important that they don't become regular and that the intervals between them don't shorten. Otherwise, this could be a sign of the onset of labor.
Increased Fetal Movement
If the baby isn't getting enough oxygen, they instinctively "massage" the placenta. Mom will feel increased fetal activity. If this continues for more than 2 days, it's best to consult a gynecologist.
Vaginal Discharge
Thick, white discharge from the vagina is a sign of a yeast infection. If it turns yellowish-green and has an unpleasant odor, it could indicate inflammation. You should get tested and undergo treatment.
Leg Pain
Pulling and bursting sensations in the legs can indicate stagnant processes and impaired blood circulation. At 25 weeks, women also complain about cramps in their calf muscles. If the discomfort is affecting your quality of life, it's important to see a doctor.
Checklist
- Revamp your diet, opting for high-quality foods without preservatives and artificial colors.
- Get a complete blood and urine test.
- Visit your doctor to measure your abdominal circumference, the height of the uterine fundus, and weekly weight gain.
- Sign up for prenatal fitness classes and maternity preparation courses.
- Go through your wardrobe and buy new clothes if necessary.
- Discuss the details of your maternity leave with your boss, which will start in 5 weeks, or in 3 weeks if you're expecting twins.