Pregnancy Week 17

Common pregnancy symptoms at 17 weeks

Now that you’re in your second trimester and 17 weeks pregnant, you might find that not all pregnancy side effects are negative. You’re glowing, you may notice a boost in your cleavage, and, if your bump is showing, people may be opening doors for you and offering to lend a hand.

• Braxton Hicks: It may feel a little early, but believe it or not, your body is already practicing for labor. You may feel an occasional tightening in your belly, which is known as a Braxton Hicks contraction. These irregular contractions are nothing to worry about and don’t hurt. If you notice an increase in Braxton Hicks contractions or experience them regularly, call your health care provider.
• Increased appetite: Your body is working hard to create a human! You may notice an uptick in your appetite during the second trimester; your body is taking cues from the growing baby. Remember to eat small, frequent meals. You only need around 300 extra calories per day to fuel baby’s growth.
• Itchy boobs and belly: As your baby and belly grow, your skin is stretching thinner. This makes it more sensitive. Find a good cream to relieve the itch and make sure you have soft, nonirritating fabrics in your maternity wardrobe.
• Stretch marks: Your stretching and thinning skin may become susceptible to stretch marks. Not all women end up with stretch marks, though. To stave off stretch marks, drink plenty of water and consider using a rich cocoa butter or other stretch mark cream to keep your skin nourished.
• Backaches: Backaches are a common pregnancy symptom that may continue throughout the entire pregnancy. If you catch yourself slouching or experiencing pain in your lower back, remember to stand up straight and keep your pelvis tucked. Back supports, firm mattresses and a good desk chair are all items that can help alleviate back pain
• Dizziness: Your dizziness may be attributed to an increase in progesterone, blood flow, blood volume or low blood sugar. This is common during pregnancy.
• Constipation: As your body releases the hormone relaxin, your body may experience frequent constipation. Upping your intake of fiber and fluids can help keep this symptom at bay.

Pregnancy checklist at 17 weeks pregnant

Between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, you will be offered the quad screen test, which screens for genetic and spinal cord abnormalities. You may also be offered other optional diagnostics tests like amniocentesis, CVS or cordocentesis. You will also likely have an ultrasound to view the baby’s organs and measure growth of the placenta.

Reminders for
Week 17

• Reach out to currently or previously pregnant friends. Chatting with other women who have been or are going through the same experience can be therapeutic. Make time to connect with other moms or moms-to-be.
• Research additional screening. Some doctors will recommend additional screening based on the mother, the baby’s development and other factors. If you have been offered additional screening, now is the time to do your research.
• Join an expectant mothers group. Many hospitals and health care providers offer support services and provide networking opportunities with other moms-to-be. Check with your health care provider to see if they provide facilitation services to connect expectant mothers.

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Week 16 | Week 18