What is happening at 17 weeks pregnant?

At 17 weeks pregnant, most women feel a sense of comfort and well being as the body adjusts to the changes. However there could be certain symptoms that develop during this time. In many cases, rashes or allergic reactions may occur due to intake of medications or dietary changes. It is advisable to consult the doctor about which medications to take for the rashes. By this stage of the pregnancy, the mother will also begin to feel the baby’s movements. However women at 17 weeks pregnant may also feel no movement and this is not necessarily a cause for concern. Some women experience movements even at week 18 or 20. Some women tend to experience lightheadedness and dizziness. This could occur especially while standing up from a sitting or lying down position. Women with high blood pressure may be more prone to these symptoms. It is advisable to keep the feet elevated using pillows when this happens. It also helps to snack on healthy foods between meals.

At 17 weeks pregnant the belly will enlarge in size. Internal changes occur in order to make room for the growing uterus. The uterus will increase in length and the top will appear rounder. The uterus can be felt while in a standing position. The stomach tends to get cramped and this can lead to indigestion and heartburn. There may also be itchiness around the breasts and abdominal area. At 17 weeks pregnant weight gain should be about a pound a week. This should continue for all the subsequent weeks. During the entire pregnancy, weight gain should be about 25 to 35 pounds more.  It is important to eat a healthy diet so that immunity is strong. Good hygiene is also essential in order to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. A woman who is 17 weeks pregnant with twins will require a greater amount of protein intake as compared to a single pregnancy.

The baby will weigh about 4 ounces by week 17 of the pregnancy. The umbilical cord thickens and becomes stronger. The baby’s ears move to their final position and this implies a development in hearing. Most of the internal parts are well developed. Fat tissues develop on the baby’s body and this helps to regulate body temperature. The facial features are more distinct now and the baby will be able to hold the head erect. Male babies will experience development of the prostate gland.

Submitted by N on April 1, 2011 at 06:21

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