17 weeks pregnant
Your baby is about the size of a pear.
About 13 cm long and 140 g. Typical sizes; every baby grows at their own pace.
What’s happening this week
Fat is starting to form under your baby's skin, which will help keep them warm after birth. The skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone. The umbilical cord is growing thicker and stronger.
Changes in your body
As your bump grows, your balance may change and you may feel a pulling ache on the sides of your tummy. This is called round ligament pain. Sharp pain or pain that doesn't settle needs your doctor.
Start sleeping on your side
As your bump grows, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees. Many women find a pillow under the bump helps too.
Bleeding, fluid leaking, fewer baby movements, a bad headache, blurred vision or sudden swelling: call your doctor or hospital now. In an emergency, call 112.
General information, not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different. Reviewed by a Femease doctor.