Pregnant week 17 – when contact with the baby can begin
Pregnant week 17 is for many the week when the first baby movements can be felt. Read about symptoms and baby development in week 17.
Week 17 of pregnancy is in the middle of the second trimester, where many experience greater calm in the body and more stability in everyday life. For some, pregnancy now begins to feel more concrete, because the body changes more clearly, and because the first faint signs of movement can appear.
Week 17 can therefore be a period where pregnancy goes from being a thought and a feeling to also becoming a physical experience.
What happens in the body at week 17?
In week 17 of pregnancy, the uterus continues to grow and now takes up more space in the abdomen. This can affect posture and balance, and some experience tenderness in the lower back, hips or pelvis. The body's circulation continues to work intensively, and the blood volume has increased to supply both you and the baby.
The hormones are relatively stable in this phase, but the body still uses a lot of resources on the pregnancy, which can be felt as periodic fatigue.
Symptoms in pregnancy week 17
Many people experience fewer discomforts in week 17 of pregnancy than before. For most, nausea is gone, and appetite is more stable. However, fatigue can still appear, especially at the end of the day.
Other common symptoms may include nosebleeds, mild headaches, increased vaginal discharge, and a feeling of stretching in the abdomen. Some also experience skin changes, such as increased pigmentation or itching.
What happens to the baby at week 17?
In the 17th week of pregnancy, the baby is about 13 centimeters long and weighs about 140 grams. The baby is growing rapidly, and its movements are becoming more powerful and coordinated. The muscles are strengthening, and the skeleton is developing further.
The baby can actively move its arms and legs and make small movements with its head. The eyes and ears are close to their final position, and the baby can respond to touch and movement inside the womb.
Pregnant week 17 and movements
Some people start to feel the first movements of their baby in the 17th week of pregnancy. It can feel like small bubbles, fluttering sensations or light puffs. For others, it takes longer before the movements are felt, and both are completely normal.
When you first feel life varies greatly and depends on your body type and previous pregnancies, among other things.
Pregnant week 17 and the belly
At week 17, the belly of many is clearly pregnant. The uterus can be felt high up in the abdomen, and the body has changed shape. For some, it is a positive and affirming sensation, while for others it takes getting used to.
All reactions are normal.
What can you do in week 17?
Week 17 of pregnancy is a good time for many to find a good balance between activity and rest. Movement can support both the body and the mood, but it is important to take into account the body's signals.
Many are also beginning to take a more concrete approach to upcoming examinations, such as malformation scans, and to practical preparations for pregnancy.
Thoughts and feelings in pregnancy week 17
Anticipation can grow in pregnancy week 17, especially if the first movements are felt. At the same time, pregnancy can feel more real, which can arouse both joy and thoughtfulness.
It's completely normal for emotions to fluctuate.
When should you seek medical attention?
In pregnancy week 17, there is generally no need for emergency medical care. However, if you experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, fever or symptoms that worry you, you should always contact a doctor or midwife.
Ready for next week
In week 18 of pregnancy, the baby's movements often become stronger, and for many, contact with the baby becomes more evident. Read more about week 18 here
Sources: Sundhed.dk, NHS, Mayo Clinic, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
