Pregnancy Calendar at Week 17
Hi, my favorite mama!
Today at our place, it’s Week 17, and I already weigh around 190 grams with a tummy nearly 20 centimeters long — pretty impressive, right? 🥑 Soon, you'll start feeling my little kicks — I can’t wait for you to notice them!
My little head and back are now sturdy, and I’m holding my little noggin up pretty well. No more «baby bump» — I guess I’m spreading out! My arms are getting gentle, my tiny elbows bend, and I curl my little fingers around your finger almost all the time. Sometimes, I even reveal my palm — just to train those tiny hands of mine 🤲
Under my skin, a layer of fat is starting to build up — first, white fat, then brown. That brown fat will help me stay warm after I’m born when we’re together. And I also have little iron stores — my body is actively preparing itself for life outside the belly!
My teeth are starting to grow, for real! The milk teeth are covered with dentin, and underneath, some premolars are already forming — all the way at the ends of where my future adult teeth will be. As I keep practicing breathing now, you’ll soon hear me yell when I meet you — with joy, of course!
Thanks for holding me inside you. I already love you very much, mama.
Your little one — my tiny avocado 🥑
What happens to me
Many pregnant women notice that they urinate more often. For some, it becomes a real problem, waking them up at night and in the early hours of the morning. The main reason for this is an increase in the size of the uterus.
Uterus
The condition of the uterus starts to change immediately after pregnancy is confirmed, but the exact timing can be measured a little later. Around the 17th week of pregnancy, the uterus can be felt about 3.8–5 centimeters below the navel. From this point on, it begins to grow higher, pushing other internal organs aside. This can cause discomfort, including a feeling of pressure in the bladder, reduced blood flow to the fetus, and decreased oxygen and nutrient supply. It’s important to get to the doctor if you notice such symptoms.
Baubles
Sometimes, women notice brownish spots that look like blood vessels. These are harmless and are just small blood vessels under the skin of the uterus. They can indicate inflammation. In this case, it’s best to see a doctor.
Breast tissue
During the 17th week of pregnancy, breast pain is quite common and is related to the stretching of the milk glands. These sensations can resemble menstrual pain and can localize lower in the abdomen. The nature of breast pain can vary from dull to sharp, triggered by movements, turns, or changing position. To reduce discomfort, try to relax your muscles in this area. As the uterus grows, it can also cause pain in the back, neck, or spine. This can help relax muscles and relieve tension.
Vascular dilation
In the 17th week of pregnancy, varicose veins may appear in the groin and leg veins. These are natural and indicate the dilation of blood vessels. The appearance of small capillaries around the nipples is also a natural phenomenon.
Apart from blood vessels, pregnant women may observe gray, bluish, or purplish skin color signs indicating a risk of spontaneous pregnancy termination. During this period, the pregnancy will likely increase further in size, and the internal organs will start to shift. Ultrasound examination at this stage helps evaluate the overall condition of the fetus and its internal organs, according to the characteristics of this pregnancy term, as well as fetal activity.
Developing Twins
Starting from the 15th week, the pregnancy of a future mother with twins begins to noticeably increase. By the 17th week, it may become larger than that of a woman expecting a single baby at the same time. At this stage, doctors already fully assess the formation of the fetus. The lower ribs, middle of the chest, and internal organs of the uterus will expand to accommodate the additional fetus. These signs can indicate the presence of multiple pregnancies. Further ultrasound testing is necessary to accurately assess the risk of developing fetal pathology.
Medical Examination
Doctors
- Consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist is necessary if you experience any complaints during pregnancy.
What is allowed and what is not
Pregnancy requires women to follow certain lifestyle recommendations to avoid complications and promote healthy development of the fetus and other pregnancy-related conditions.
Things to avoid
- Smoking
- Pelonephritis
- Consuming certain types of lotion (full, partial, or low-dose)
What is forbidden
Pregnancy requires women to adhere to specific restrictions regarding their lifestyle and diet. This helps prevent complications and reduces the risk of miscarriage or congenital anomalies in the fetus. For instance, avoiding heavy physical exertion, intense sport, or prolonged running is advisable. It is recommended to limit physical activity in the groin area, especially with the presence of varicose veins or blood clots from the vulva. Elevated body temperature and overall weakness can also impact the development of the fetus and should be addressed promptly. Avoiding hot baths and saunas is also advised, especially if there are signs of TORCH infection, as it can trigger prenatal pregnancy loss or exacerbate existing infections.
Don’ts for future mothers
- Avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use. These harmful habits can lead to congenital disabilities and other pregnancy complications.
- Avoid heavy sports, weight lifting, and long-distance running.
- Limit contact with domestic animals, especially if they have ticks, which can transmit toxoplasmosis.
What NOT to do
- Visit tattoo salons and do not undertake permanent makeup. These procedures carry a risk of infection, which is unacceptable during pregnancy.
Eating Right During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, what's most important is to eat a full, balanced diet and take care of your health.
- Pay special attention to your protein intake, but don't forget about carbs and healthy fats.
- Fruits and vegetables should be a staple in your daily diet.
- Cook food thoroughly, for example, ensure eggs are cooked well. All products should be fresh and natural.
- Avoid sharp, sour, burnt, fried, and salty dishes, as well as carbonated drinks and coffee.
- Eat in small portions often. Ideally, go for 5-6 smaller meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a few snacks.
- Don't go hungry: your baby will grow faster and need enough nutrients to develop. You can find these in meat, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, grains, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other foods.
The Need for Vitamins and Microelements
In the 17th week of pregnancy, the female body’s organ development and the growing fetus require adequate vitamins and minerals to support these processes. It's especially important for the functioning of the fetal heart, blood vessels, and endocrine system. Insufficient intake of these vitamins can lead to developmental problems with the bones and muscles, and also cause issues like osteoporosis, problems with blood circulation, anemia, and decreased placental blood flow. Rich sources of magnesium include fish, meats, eggs, dairy, beans, grains, and various fruits and vegetables.
Main Vitamins for Pregnant Women
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Vitamin E is a key antioxidant in the body. It supports the growth of oxygen-rich cells and provides protection from damage. This vitamin is found in fish, liver, green leafy vegetables, eggs, dairy, and other foods.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B1 helps regulate arterial pressure, maintaining it at a normal level during pregnancy. It is present in spinach, beets, Brussels sprouts, capers, eggs, fish, seafood, fruits, and various grains.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamin B2 is essential for proper functioning of the liver, preventing damage and supporting the health of liver cells. It is abundant in meat, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, and vegetables.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in the endocrine system's regulation, particularly supporting the adrenal glands which produce hormones like cortisol and insulin. These hormones are vital for the development of the brain and internal organs in the fetus. Rich sources include fish, eggs, fish oil, dairy, grains, apples, and other vegetables.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 is necessary for proper formation of the central nervous system in the fetus and the development of the internal organs. It is found in fish, meats, eggs, dairy, and bananas.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is involved in the absorption of folic acid, which is indispensable during pregnancy. It is present in meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and seafood.
Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption and supports the formation of bone tissue and teeth. It prevents rickets and promotes the functioning of the endocrine system. During pregnancy, it is found in fish, liver, seafood, eggs, dairy, and mushrooms.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Vitamin A plays a key role in the formation and strengthening of the fetal skeletal and muscular system. A deficiency can lead to developmental delays, blood circulation issues, and anemia. It is found in fish, meat, eggs, dairy, liver, and various vegetables and fruits.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for maintaining the normal levels of bone calcium. Its deficiency can cause osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems. During pregnancy, it is present in fish, meat, eggs, dairy, eggshells, dairy products, beans, grains, and other plants.
Zinc
Zinc is involved in the metabolism of nutrients, hormone formation, nucleic acids, and proteins. A deficiency may impair development of the fetal bones and muscles, and cause anemia, delayed growth, and health issues with the liver and immune system. Rich sources include eggs, fish, shellfish, nuts, grains, and seeds.
Magnesium
Magnesium supports the nucleic acids and hormone synthesis crucial for the growth of the fetal heart, blood vessels, and endocrine glands. Its deficiency can cause osteoporosis and preterm labor. During pregnancy, magnesium is found in fish, meats, eggs, dairy, and various vegetables.
Helpful Tips
If you're struggling with frequent urination, try drinking more fluids in the first half of the day and cutting back a few hours before bed to help reduce water intake.
If you experience a burning sensation when you urinate, pain downstairs or in the pelvic area, and also notice your body temperature rising quickly, you should see a doctor right away. These symptoms could indicate a bladder or kidney infection.
If you have nosebleeds, don’t panic. Tilt your head forward and apply a cold compress or something cold to your nose for a few minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, contact a healthcare professional.
When experiencing increased blood pressure, use a soft cushion with a gentle cushion and avoid salty, spicy, and marinated foods that could irritate the lining of your throat. If your blood pressure remains high, visit a dentist.
Choose comfortable shoes with a heel no higher than 3-4 cm and a non-slip sole to prevent falls.
If you have a feeling of dizziness, pinch your fingers together, then relax your muscles and repeat this movement with more force. Once your dizziness lessens, massage the muscles from your feet to your knees. To help restore normal blood flow, sit for a few minutes in a room and then get comfortable. If dizziness persists or becomes frequent, consult a doctor.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
During your second trimester, staying physically active can be really beneficial for pregnant women, as long as there aren’t any special restrictions or risks with your little one. It’s always a good idea to check in with your doctor—who’s guiding your pregnancy—and let your trainer know where you’re at. This way, they can help you craft a new workout plan that suits your current needs.
It’s best to avoid exercises that involve jarring movements of the abdominal wall to prevent unnecessary interruptions to your pregnancy. Plus, it’s not recommended to do exercises lying on your back, especially as your uterus grows and puts more pressure on pelvic organs.
Walking is highly recommended—especially if you enjoy a brisk pace outdoors. Just aim for about 45 minutes each day, and consider incorporating swimming or other activities suited for pregnant women. Always listen to your body and adjust accordingly to stay comfortable and safe.
Problems During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman might face various issues, often caused by hormonal imbalances and infections. These health problems can pose risks to both mother and baby since they may lead to preterm labor or developmental issues inside the womb. That's why regular doctor check-ups are essential to identify and select the right treatment, ensuring safety for both mother and child throughout pregnancy.
Acute Respiratory Infections and Bacterial Diseases
These infections often develop due to weakened immunity. They pose a threat to the baby since they can trigger early labor or impair the development of internal organs. The infection usually originates from changes in hormonal levels and temporary reduction of immune activity. Treatment by a healthcare professional is necessary, and infections in pregnant women should never be ignored. If untreated, bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, causing abscesses or tissue damage. To avoid complications, it is recommended to consult a certified massage therapist and engage in safe physical activities during pregnancy.
Cervical Erosion
Cervical erosion can develop from increased blood flow to the uterus, which creates additional load on the circulatory system, especially in the veins. Starting from the 17th week of pregnancy, women may notice varicose veins appearing on their legs and enlarged veins. Treatment for these issues is handled by a vascular doctor. Managing these problems usually involves compressive therapy.
Varicose Veins in the Lower Limbs
During pregnancy, blood volume increases, leading to the formation of varicose veins around the legs and enlarged veins. Treating these issues requires a phlebologist. Usually, varicose veins can be managed with proper compression stockings.
