Week 17: Development of Fat Tissue
Week seventeen marks the beginning of fat tissue formation and skin development.
Baby size: Pear (55-60 mm)
Baby development
Development of hearing and unique traits
Your baby is becoming increasingly refined. Its hearing continues to develop, and it already distinguishes your voice, heartbeat, and other external sounds well.
What’s happening this week:
- Fat deposits: Subcutaneous fat begins to form, which will help the baby stay warm after birth.
- Sucking reflex: It is actively practicing sucking and swallowing, preparing for breastfeeding.
- Heart: The heartbeat is now regulated by the brain (previously it occurred automatically) and is 140‑150 beats per minute.
- Placenta: It is growing to meet the baby’s increasing needs for oxygen and nutrients.
Your fetus now weighs about 140 grams, and its length is over 13 centimeters.
Changes for mom
Increasing appetite and new challenges
Your body continues to change, and you may notice that your appetite has increased significantly. This is normal, as your baby is growing actively and needs more energy.
What you may notice:
- Strong hunger: You may feel ready to eat constantly. Try to keep healthy snacks on hand.
- Dizziness: Due to changes in the circulatory system you may feel dizzy, especially with sudden movements. Rise slowly.
- Increased discharge: You may notice a rise in vaginal discharge (leukorrhea). This is normal if it is clear or whitish and odorless.
- Leg cramps: They may continue to bother you, especially at night.
It’s important to understand which changes are normal and which require a doctor’s attention. Learn more in the article "Pregnancy Symptoms".
Overview
Week 17: Your baby is gaining weight
At week seventeen the main news is the start of fat tissue formation in your baby. This fat, known as brown fat, is extremely important because it will help regulate body temperature after birth.
Your fetus is now the size of a large pear or a turnip. It continues to grow actively, and its placenta, which provides everything needed, is also increasing in size and now weighs about 150 grams.
This week will likely be filled with energy and a good appetite for you. Your belly is growing, and you may feel the first movements if you haven't felt them before. This is a time when pregnancy becomes increasingly comfortable and pleasant.
Fat accumulation is an important step toward independent life. Your baby is diligently preparing to meet you, and every gram brings it closer to that goal.
Enjoy this period of calm and good well‑being. To learn more about the specifics of this stage, check out our detailed guide on the second trimester.
Tips for mom
Healthy nutrition and preparation for the future
This is a great time to satisfy your appetite in a way that benefits both you and your baby and to start thinking about important aspects of the future.
What you should do:
- Listen to your body. Eat when you’re hungry, but choose quality foods: fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains.
- Avoid sudden movements. To prevent dizziness, rise from the bed or chair slowly.
- Talk to your doctor about back pain. They may recommend specific exercises or wearing a maternity support belt.
- Consider a name for the baby. It’s a pleasant process that helps build a connection with your little one.
A healthy diet is the key to good well‑being. Get inspired with ideas in the article "Balanced nutrition during pregnancy".
Tips for partner
Practical help and joint decisions
Your involvement can make this period even more comfortable and joyful for your partner.
Your contribution to shared well‑being:
- Become the head chef. Cook healthy and tasty meals to satisfy her appetite. Keep a stock of healthy snacks at home.
- Help her be careful. Remind her to avoid sudden movements, and offer a hand when she gets up.
- Choose a name together. Take an active part in the name discussion. It shows your involvement in the process.
- Start setting up the home. It may be time to consider a small rearrangement or begin clearing space for baby items.
Preparing the home for the baby’s arrival is an important and exciting stage. Find useful tips in the article "Preparing the home and room".
Checklist
Your action plan for week 17
Enjoy the energy and plan for the future.
- ✅ Create a list of healthy snacks and always have them on hand.
- 🧘♀️ Do back exercises if you feel discomfort (after consulting a doctor).
- 👶 Make a short list of favorite names for a boy and a girl.
- ❤️ Arrange a romantic date while enjoying good well‑being.
- 💸 Review the financial plan and perhaps open a savings account for the child.
- 📚 Learn more about financial readiness for the baby’s birth in the article "Financial preparation".