Week 17 Pregnancy
You are 17 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a pear. This week's key development: Growing Strong. NHS note: Routine care.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a pear.
Growing Strong — Fat is beginning to accumulate under your baby's skin, which will help regulate their temperature after birth. Their skeleton continues to harden, and the umbilical cord is growing thicker and stronger — the lifeline between you two.
Your Symptoms
- Increased sweating
- Itchy skin on your belly
- Stretch marks may appear
Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.
NHS Appointments
Routine care. Your next big milestone is the 20-week anomaly scan.
Practical Advice for Week 17
Nutrition
- Continue vitamin D and eat a varied, balanced diet.
- Omega-3 fatty acids support your baby's brain development — include oily fish or supplements.
- If heartburn is starting, avoid spicy or fatty foods close to bedtime.
- Magnesium-rich foods (bananas, dark chocolate, almonds) may help with leg cramps.
Exercise
- Continue moderate exercise — your body will tell you what feels right.
- Gentle stretching helps with the itchy, stretching skin on your belly.
- Swimming relieves pressure on your joints and back.
- Avoid lying flat on your back during exercise — use an incline instead.
Wellbeing
- Itchy skin on your belly is normal as it stretches — moisturise liberally.
- Stretch marks may appear — they're a badge of honour, and they fade over time.
- Increased sweating is caused by higher metabolism and blood flow.
- Use a pregnancy-safe moisturiser or oil on your bump — coconut oil or bio-oil are popular.
Preparation
- Your next big milestone is the 20-week anomaly scan — check it's booked.
- Start looking at pushchairs and car seats — research takes time.
- Consider whether you want to find out your baby's sex at the 20-week scan.
- If you haven't told your employer yet, you must do so by 15 weeks before your due date.
Tip of the Week
Use a moisturiser or oil on your growing bump to help soothe itchy, stretching skin.
Track Your Due Date
Keep track of your pregnancy milestones, NHS scans, and countdown to your due date.
Go to TrackerNHS Resources
Find trusted information on financial support, antenatal classes, and local maternity services.
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