You’re almost halfway through this amazing journey, and your body has been working overtime to create a cozy home for your little one.
So, what can you expect at this stage in terms of body changes and symptoms?
Let us tell you all about it!
Juliette Seblon
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Frequent Urination
Heartburn
Swelling
Let's start with the swelling you've been dealing with.
That’s probably because of those pregnancy hormones again making your feet and hands swell.
Swelling, also known as edema, is due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, which can cause the body to retain more water and salt.
The growing uterus can put pressure on the veins that return blood from the lower half of the body, leading to fluid buildup in the extremities.
The reality is that this is totally normal.
But if it seems excessive and you have had a sudden and significant weight gain, definitely reach out to your doctor.
Dizziness and that lightheaded feeling is up next!
There are a few reasons that this could happen.
The first... during pregnancy, progesterone increases the flow of blood to your baby, resulting in lower blood pressure and reduced blood flow to your brain — giving you that faint feeling all over.
Another reason... the body's demand for glucose increases.
If a woman does not eat enough or goes too long without eating, her blood sugar levels may drop, which can cause dizziness or faintness.
And last but not least, dehydration can kick in more easily during pregnancy due to increased fluid needs.
This can lead to dizziness or faintness too.
In most cases, the dizzies are completely normal and definitely no real cause for concern, especially if you stay hydrated and eat well!
It's always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Just a note, if you are lying down on a constant basis, keep in mind that the nerves will be pinched and can cause dizziness.
Moving on to these cravings.
Your body is working on overdrive to support your growing baby, and that requires a lot of energy.
The food you eat is also fueling your body changes which includes your growing uterus and breasts, higher blood volume, and increased fat stores.
You might feel guilty for giving in to your cravings, but a little indulgence won't hurt.
Just remember to balance it out with healthy choices too.
After you're done with all this eating, the heartburn sets in.
Well, the hormone progesterone relaxes the muscles in the body, including the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
As a result, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat.
Bad news: It will probably stay with you until your baby is born.
Good news: There are things that you can do to help avoid it if possible.
Leg cramps during pregnancy can be really annoying.
While the exact cause of leg cramps during pregnancy is not known, there are several factors that may contribute:
Changes in blood circulation due to pressure on blood vessels
Hormonal changes that can cause muscles and ligaments to relax
Dehydration
Low levels of certain nutrients
Overexertion of leg muscles
Compression of nerves due to the growth of the uterus.
If those leg cramps just won't quit, don't hesitate to chat with your doctor who can offer some help.
Around 40% of moms start to feel their baby's movements more distinctly. It’s a wonderful time to start talking or singing to your baby
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
What's happening right now?
As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on your lower body, specifically on the veins in your rectum, causing hemorrhoids.
This can result in unpleasant symptoms like itching, pain, and even bleeding.
However, it's quite common and nothing to worry about.
Having bizarre dreams is normal during pregnancy and is caused by hormonal changes, as well as nerves and anticipation.
Your life is changing significantly, and these dreams are just an expression of that.
Nothing to worry about.
Next up is snoring!
It's perfectly normal to snore while pregnant.
Swelling in your upper airway, weight gain, and breathing for two all contribute to this.
It's just another pregnancy symptom and will pass in time.
Your skin is thinning out as your belly expands, leading to itching.
Try to resist scratching to avoid stretch marks.
If you experience excessive itching elsewhere, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
And then there's back pain.
As your baby grows and your belly gets bigger, your center of gravity shifts forward, putting extra strain on your lower back muscles, which can lead to discomfort and pain.
Top asked questions
Is it safe to take over-the-counter medication during pregnancy?
Some are safe, but always check with your doctor first..
When should I start preparing for the baby's arrival?
It's a good idea to start thinking about the nursery, baby gear, and childbirth classes now.
What are some common emotional changes at 17w?
Hormonal changes can cause mood swings, anxiety, and sometimes melancholia.
Is it normal to have headaches during pregnancy?
Yes, but talk to your doctor about what medications are safe to take. Also, be aware if you're getting frequent headaches along with symptoms like dizziness, buzzing in the ears and floating spots in vision, definitely contact your doctor.
When should I start thinking about breastfeeding?
It's never too early to start learning about breastfeeding and talking to a lactation consultant.
Taking care of myself
Well done, mom-to-be! You are going through each week like a champ!
Here are a few helpful tips for you to get through this week:
Laugh Often: Laughter is the best medicine for getting through a lot of your pregnancy symptoms! Watch a funny movie, listen to a comedy podcast or spend time with people who make you laugh.
Stay Connected: Pregnancy can be an emotional time, so it's important to stay connected with your partner, family, and friends. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Maybe start putting together your baby shower invite list to celebrate you and baby 🫶🏼.
Keeping up with the Prenatals: Prenatal vitamins are crucial for your baby's health and development. Make sure to take them as recommended by your doctor.
Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to a pedicure, facial, or other beauty treatment to help you feel your best. Just be sure to tell the professional that you are pregnant so they can adapt their service to be pregnancy-safe.
Drinky, Drinky: Drinking plenty of water is essential for both you and your baby. Aim to drink at least 10 8-ounces of water every day. Throw in some fruit or use some soda water to make like a mocktail.
Tips of the week
Stay active and incorporate gentle stretching into your routine
Connect with other expectant parents in your community
Plan for potential changes to your work schedule or maternity leave
Teaser for next week
Pregnancy is not always rainbows and sunshines but we are here to help you know what to expect each week.
Next week you'll probably continue with some more ligament pain but you might see some new symptoms: pregnancy mask and the Linea Nigra!
Currently pregnant with my 🌈 baby as well, i’m at 15w almost 16w. Her heart rate always 150’s as well! ❤️
27 Mar 2024
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jefe
awe blessings to you both 🎉 😍 and she's a girl, my doc told me using the hand held ultrasound device that she pretty sure my rainbow is a girl and said she see's ""the two lines"" but don't quote her on that, so in 3 weeks we shall see 😊 🤞🏾
27 Mar 2024
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❄️ Emma ❄️
1 Sep 2023
17w 4d bumpdate! Little bean is growing so fast! Can’t wait for my ultrasound which is supposed to be next week 🤞🏻🫶
Anyone experience round ligament pain real bad when on the toilet tryin to get up whewwwww I’m 17w 4d I swear I’ve been dealing wit this since the beginning
Yes me too.. I am 10 weeks going on 11 weeks and I have been going through that for weeks now.
27 Mar 2024
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Amanda
I have extremely bad round ligament pain. I started bleeding yesterday after cramping since Sunday. Went for a ultrasound today baby looks fine. The nurse said the more pregnancies you have the worse the pain is. This is my fifth baby
27 Mar 2024
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Dee
22 Apr 2023
All day I been 17w 6days now that it's the evening time I'm 18weeks . Does this happen yall?
Yes it happens to me mid day it will change im 37 weeks and 6 says and it changed it to 38 already
27 Mar 2024
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Dee
okay thank you lol
27 Mar 2024
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Hayley 🩵👼🏻🩷 🩵
3 Mar 2023
Normal to have pains in my lady parts this early on, 17w 2d ?? They aren't super bad but are noticeable I'm just getting over a UTI just need a little reassurance..
I’ve had pains off and on already, I think it’s normal 😊. Just call your dr if they continue or worsen/worry you for piece of mind ♥️
27 Mar 2024
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Hayley 🩵👼🏻🩷 🩵
thak you🙏🏻
27 Mar 2024
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Ashley
20 Dec 2022
17w and 3d today ❤️ Lastnight I felt the strongest little movements I’ve yet to feel! I’ve been feeling her move about since 15w but nothing as strong as I did lastnight!! Oh how I’ve missed the feeling of the little life I’m growing inside me move. By far my FAVORITE part of being pregnant 💜
#17w #babygirl #movingaround
Awww I’m about to be 18 weeks tomorrow and my bump is not nearly as cute as yours😩😍 yours is so cute and round lol and mine makes me feel like I don’t have a bump yet
27 Mar 2024
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Carly
Omg I’m 20 weeks and my bump isn’t as big as yours at all!!
27 Mar 2024
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Sage
29 Aug 2022
I know you can't see in between the legs but do y'all think this is a boy or girl? I have a little boy already and I'm 17w just curious what y'all think. I say girl.
18w tmw!!!
anyone else barely showing, but get really big once they finish eating?? i go from 17w to 24w after a plate of spaghetti…😅 #food #firsttimemom #youngmom #bellybump #pregnancytracking
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