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Discover what happens during week 17 of second trimester. Baby development, body changes, symptoms, and a weekly checklist.
Almost halfway through! As your baby continues to grow and develop, you may start to feel more connected to them as you feel their movements. This is an exciting time to start planning and preparing for your baby's arrival and to start making important decisions about your birth experience and postpartum care.
Second Trimester is a time of rapid change — for both you and your baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and the information below will help you understand what's happening and how to prepare for the weeks ahead.
Your uterus continues expanding upward, shifting nearby organs and increasing pressure on muscles and ligaments. Blood volume has increased significantly by now, placing more demand on circulation and energy levels. Your body is actively supporting both rapid fetal growth and placental development.
Stretching sensations, mild back discomfort, or sharper side pains can become more noticeable now. You may also feel warmer than usual because of increased blood flow and circulation.
Soft fat layers begin forming beneath the skin, helping your baby start regulating body temperature later on. Bones continue hardening, and the skeleton becomes more defined on scans. Movements grow stronger and more coordinated each week.
Each week brings new things to prepare for. Here's what expecting parents during week 17 typically track in the BabySteps Companion app. Items are sorted by priority so you can focus on what matters most.
Ensure your safety while driving by learning the proper way to buckle up in the car. Adjust your seatbelt position to accommodate your changing body, prioritizing both comfort and security.
Get inspired as you gather ideas for your baby's nursery. Exploring themes, colors, and décor elements can help you create a cozy and welcoming space for your little one.
Begin researching and outlining options for your birth plan. Discuss preferences with your healthcare provider, understanding available choices to make informed decisions about your birthing experience.
Engage in open communication with your partner about your changing sexual life. Discussing your feelings, needs, and concerns fosters understanding and strengthens your emotional connection during this transformative time.
Get reminders, mark items as done, and never miss a step.
Get week-by-week guidance tailored to your role, health & history, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common sensations women report during week 17. Your experience is valid — whether you feel all of these or none at all.
Blurred vision or seeing spots, especially accompanied by headaches, could be signs of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. If you experience these symptoms, particularly in the second or third trimester, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
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Many pregnant women experience food aversions, where certain smells or tastes trigger feelings of nausea or disgust. This can be a result of hormonal changes and may vary from person to person. It's essential to listen to your body and avoid foods that make you feel unwell. If food aversions impact your ability to eat a balanced diet, consult your healthcare provider.
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Pregnancy can sometimes bring on itchy skin due to stretching and hormonal changes. While mild itching is normal, severe or persistent itching could signal a liver problem called cholestasis. If you're experiencing intense itching, especially on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet, consult your doctor.
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These are pink or purple streaks that can appear on your abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. They are caused by the rapid stretching of your skin to accommodate your growing baby. While they're a natural part of pregnancy, keeping the skin well-moisturized with creams or oils can help minimize their appearance. However, it's important to remember that stretch marks are normal and fade over time.
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Learn more about what to expect with expert-guided videos and articles curated for this stage of your pregnancy.
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