Week 17 of Pregnancy

Around this time, many expectant mothers start to feel the first signs of life inside their belly, a truly magical experience! Don’t worry if you haven’t felt anything yet; this is completely normal, and you’ll have that special moment when the time is right. Your baby is now about 18 cm long and weighs around 190 grams — roughly the size of a pear. In addition to moving their arms and legs, your baby can now move their head, lips, hands, feet, and even individual fingers and toes.

What’s happening with your baby at 17 weeks

By week 17, your baby’s sense of taste is beginning to develop, allowing them to distinguish between sweet and non-sweet amniotic fluid. Amazingly, they’re already forming preferences for certain flavors! Your baby’s head is still proportionally large compared to the rest of the body, and fine hair is starting to grow.

Thanks to your strong and flexible uterine wall, your baby can practice moving all their limbs by pushing against it. These movements may soon become noticeable to you — unlike the quick, startle-like reflexes of early pregnancy, they are now smoother and more coordinated. Your baby is also developing the strength and coordination to move their fingers and toes, and may even be able to frown!

What’s happening to your body at week 17

By now, your waistline may have disappeared as your baby bump becomes more visible, and you may notice the first signs of stretch marks — a common part of pregnancy. Some women also experience discomforts such as hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections, increased vaginal discharge, or constipation. While these can be bothersome, they are generally a normal part of pregnancy and something most women experience to some extent.

As your uterus continues to grow, loose-fitting clothes or maternity wear will likely be the most comfortable. Supportive tights can help relieve leg discomfort, while breathable cotton underwear keeps you feeling fresh. A well-fitted maternity bra, first mentioned in week 15, is still an essential investment, offering comfort, lift, and support throughout these ongoing changes.

Suggestions for week 17

Continuing safe, regular exercise will help you stay healthy and prepare your body for labor. Prenatal yoga or fitness classes not only teach you breathing and relaxation techniques, but also improve flexibility and ease discomfort during pregnancy.

Swimming remains one of the safest and most gentle sports for expectant mothers, helping to relieve pressure on the joints and improve circulation. However, if you don’t already know how to swim, this may not be the best time to start learning.

Week 17 is also a good time to start planning for childcare after your baby is born. Discuss with your partner whether you’ll return to work, who will care for the baby, and what arrangements best suit your family — from daycare centers and hiring a caregiver, to seeking help from relatives. Planning ahead will help you feel more at ease as you prepare to welcome your little one.

Reference

This article includes information adapted from the Dutch pregnancy care platform Zwangerportaal.