BabyBerry25 Weeks Pregnant
Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.
Your baby this week
Your baby is about the size of a rutabaga, measuring approximately 13.6 inches from head to heel and weighing around 1.5 pounds. The baby now responds noticeably to your voice, music, and touch — you may feel a kick when they hear a familiar sound. The nostrils, which have been plugged until now, are beginning to open, and baby is practicing breathing by inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid. Fat deposits are steadily increasing under the skin, making baby look less wrinkly and more like a newborn. The brain is growing rapidly, with the cortex developing into distinct layers, and the nervous system is maturing enough to control some body functions.
How you may feel
Heartburn and acid reflux become more persistent as your growing uterus pushes your stomach upward, allowing stomach acid to escape into the esophagus. Hemorrhoids may appear or worsen due to increased pressure on the rectal veins and constipation — this is one of the less glamorous but very common pregnancy symptoms. Your hair may look thicker and more lustrous thanks to pregnancy hormones that slow normal hair shedding. Snoring may begin or increase, even if you've never snored before, due to swollen nasal membranes and increased blood volume. You might also notice some mild shortness of breath as your growing uterus pushes up against your diaphragm.
Common symptoms
- Heartburn and indigestion may feel relentless as the uterus pushes on your stomach.
- Hemorrhoids may develop from increased pelvic pressure and constipation.
- Trouble sleeping due to frequent urination, heartburn, and difficulty finding comfort.
This week's tips
Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after eating to help manage heartburn. Keep antacids approved by your provider (like Tums) on hand, and sleep propped up on extra pillows if nighttime reflux is bothersome. Increase fiber intake with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation and reduce hemorrhoid risk. Avoid spicy, greasy, and citrus foods if they trigger your heartburn. Consider sleeping on your left side, which keeps the stomach below the esophagus and aids digestion while also optimizing blood flow to the placenta.
Eating well
- Eat high-fiber foods and drink plenty of water to soften stools and prevent hemorrhoids.
- Avoid large meals before bed — eat dinner at least 3 hours before lying down.
- Include prunes, figs, and pears as natural constipation relief.
Nutrition focus
- Fiber supplements (psyllium husk) can help if dietary fiber isn't enough — ask your provider.
- Continue iron supplementation; pair it with vitamin C for better absorption.
Everyday wellbeing
- Use a warm sitz bath for hemorrhoid relief — 10–15 minutes, twice daily.
- Sleep on your left side with pillows supporting your belly and between your knees.
- Kegel exercises help with hemorrhoid prevention and bladder control.
For your partner
Keep antacids stocked at home, in the car, and in her purse — heartburn can strike anywhere. Help adjust meal times and portion sizes to reduce reflux, and offer to take over cooking if strong food smells are making her nauseous. Read or sing to the baby belly each night — research shows babies recognize voices they hear frequently in the womb. Start discussing and researching childcare options if both parents plan to return to work, as waitlists for quality daycare can be surprisingly long.
Signs to mention to your provider
- Rectal bleeding beyond small amounts from hemorrhoids needs medical assessment.
- Severe constipation with abdominal pain may require medical intervention.
- Contractions or pressure in your pelvis occurring regularly before 37 weeks.
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.