BabyBerry17 Weeks Pregnant
Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.
Your baby this week
Your baby is about the size of a pomegranate, measuring around 5.1 inches and weighing about 5.9 ounces. Fat stores are beginning to form under baby's skin — this brown fat will be crucial for temperature regulation after birth. Sweat glands are developing throughout baby's body. The umbilical cord is growing stronger and thicker to meet the increasing demands of nutrient and oxygen delivery. Baby's skeleton is gradually transitioning from soft cartilage to hardened bone, and the fingerprints and toeprints are now fully unique. The placenta is now nearly as large as the baby itself.
How you may feel
Back pain may increase this week as your center of gravity shifts forward with your growing uterus. Your body is producing the hormone relaxin, which loosens joints and ligaments in preparation for delivery — but it also affects other joints, making you more prone to aches and instability. You may gain weight more noticeably now, with an average of about 1 pound per week during the second trimester. Some women experience sciatic nerve pain — a shooting pain from the lower back down through the buttock and leg. Stretch marks may begin to appear on the belly, breasts, or thighs as skin stretches to accommodate growth.
Common symptoms
- Baby's movements become more noticeable — especially when you rest quietly.
- Increased vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) is normal if clear and odorless.
- Vivid or bizarre dreams are common due to hormonal changes and sleep disruptions.
This week's tips
Practice good posture by standing tall with shoulders back and avoiding locking your knees — this helps distribute weight more evenly and reduces back strain. A pregnancy pillow (C-shaped or U-shaped) can be a game-changer for sleep comfort, supporting your belly, back, and hips simultaneously. When sleeping, try lying on your left side with a pillow between your knees to improve circulation and reduce back pressure. Gentle stretching, prenatal yoga, and swimming are excellent ways to alleviate back pain. If you experience severe or persistent pain, mention it to your healthcare provider to rule out any complications.
Eating well
- Eat two servings of low-mercury fish per week — tilapia, cod, or shrimp are safe.
- Include calcium-fortified orange juice or plant milk if you avoid dairy.
- Try overnight oats with walnuts and banana for a quick, nutrient-dense breakfast.
Nutrition focus
- Continue prenatal vitamins with DHA for your baby's rapidly growing brain.
- Copper (1 mg/day) works with iron to form red blood cells — found in cashews and lentils.
Everyday wellbeing
- This is a good time to look into childbirth education classes.
- Sleep on your left side for optimal blood flow to the uterus and kidneys.
- Take short breaks from sitting — stand and stretch every 30–60 minutes at work.
For your partner
Offer a gentle back massage — focus on the lower back and shoulders where tension tends to accumulate most. You can learn some basic prenatal massage techniques from YouTube videos or books, but avoid deep pressure on the lower back and never massage the ankles deeply (certain pressure points can stimulate contractions). Help around the house with tasks that require bending or lifting, as these movements become increasingly uncomfortable. Consider surprising her with a pregnancy pillow if she doesn't have one yet — many partners report it's the single best pregnancy purchase they made.
Signs to mention to your provider
- Foul-smelling, yellow, or green vaginal discharge suggests infection — see your doctor.
- Severe itching on palms or soles could indicate cholestasis — report it promptly.
- Persistent unilateral leg swelling with pain could be a blood clot — seek care urgently.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.