Second Trimester

Week 17 of Pregnancy

Baby size: About the size of an avocado.

Main focus: Rapid growth, movement, clinic follow-up and maternal wellbeing.

Baby development

During week 17, your baby continues important growth and development. This week is part of the second trimester, when the body and organs continue forming, growing or preparing for birth.

Full term is near or already reached. Labour may begin anytime, so stay prepared.

What mothers may feel

Mothers may notice more energy, a growing belly, back pain, hunger and feeling the baby move. Every pregnancy is different, so some women may feel many changes while others feel only a few.

Rest, hydration, healthy food and clinic follow-up all help support a safer pregnancy.

Health tips for week 17

Continue regular antenatal visits and monitor blood pressure.
Eat balanced meals with iron-rich foods when possible.
Sleep on your side when comfortable and stay active with light movement.
Get help quickly if you notice swelling, severe headache, fever or reduced movement later in pregnancy.

When to seek help

Seek urgent care if you have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, swelling of the face or hands, severe headache, seizures, leaking fluid, or reduced baby movement later in pregnancy.

Clinic reminder

Keep attending antenatal visits according to your nurse, midwife or doctor’s advice. Clinic visits help monitor the health of both mother and baby and can identify problems early.