17 Weeks Pregnant Guide: Symptoms, Belly, and Baby Development

Dear Mama, Are you enjoying the feel-good phase of pregnancy now that your morning sickness is fading? Congratulations — you have made it to Week 17! Whether you're busy juggling those peculiar cravings (ice cream with pickles, anyone?) or just soaking in the excitement of your growing bump, this is a special time. Inside, your baby is growing rapidly — and outside, that little bump might be making its first real appearance. 

Also, did you know this is around the time your doctor might be able to determine your baby's gender? In this blog, we will explore your baby’s development at 17 weeks, changes in your body, and what’s happening behind the scenes!

Let us dive in and understand how your little one is doing this week!

17 Weeks Pregnant: Baby’s Development

At 17 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is around 13 cm long (about the size of a pomegranate) and weighs approximately 150 grams. A lot is happening this week — especially in those tiny facial features! 

• Eyelashes and eyelids are starting to form.
• Your baby can now open and close their mouth.
• Most fascinating of all — your little one now has unique fingerprints forming! 
• Fingernails and toenails continue to grow.
• Baby has developed a firm hand grip.
• Week by week, your baby is becoming more active — rolling, flipping, and maybe even hiccupping!

While you may not feel strong movements just yet, gentle fluttering sensations might start — especially after a meal, when listening to music, or if you gently touch or rub your tummy. These little flutters are often the first signs of your baby’s growing personality.

Your Body at 17 Weeks of Pregnancy

At 17 weeks of pregnancy, your uterus has grown enough that you might actually feel your womb just below your belly button. As it expands, it begins to push your intestines upward, and your other organs start shifting slightly to make room for your growing baby.

You may also notice stretch marks appearing — usually pink, red, or purple — especially on your belly, hips, thighs, or breasts. These are completely normal and a sign that your body is working hard to grow and nourish your baby.

Your breasts may grow 1–2 cup sizes bigger. This happens because your pregnancy hormones are preparing your body for breastfeeding, increasing blood flow and stimulating the development of milk-producing glands.

Common Symptoms At 17 Weeks Pregnant:

As your baby continues to grow and your body adjusts to the changes, you may start noticing a range of new symptoms. These are completely normal and are a part of the pregnancy journey. Here are some of the most common ones around this time:

• Tiredness and sleep disturbances
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Round ligament pain – a sharp or aching sensation on the sides of your belly due to your expanding womb
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Bloating and constipation
• Indigestion and heartburn
• Sore or tender breasts
• Leg cramps
• Feeling unusually hot
• Dizziness
• Swollen hands and feet
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Vaginal infections
• Darkened skin or brown patches on your face (known as melasma or the "mask of pregnancy")
• Oily or spotty skin
• Thicker, shinier hair

While some of these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are all signs that your body is working hard to support your growing baby. If anything feels severe or unusual, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider immediately.

Tips To Make Your Pregnancy Better

At 17 weeks pregnant, your body is working hard, and a little support can go a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you feel your best during this stage:

1. Don’t eat for two — eat smart

Although you’re nourishing your growing baby, there’s no need to eat double. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in nutrients — your baby will get what they need from the food you eat.

2. Check your vitamin D levels

Vitamin D is essential for your baby's bone development. If recommended by your doctor, take a supplement of around 10 micrograms daily to support healthy growth and help prevent soft bones (rickets).

3. Keep moving — gently

Exercise is great for pregnancy, but it’s important to avoid strenuous workouts that could exhaust you. Gentle activities like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming are ideal.

4. Strengthen your pelvic floor

Many women experience urinary incontinence during pregnancy. Practising pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) can help lower your chances of developing incontinence and support your body during and after birth.

Pregnancy Weight Gain: What’s Normal?

Week by week, your body is doing something amazing — growing a little human! 

Naturally, you’ll gain weight during pregnancy, but keeping an eye on it is important for both your health and your baby’s.

Let’s take a quick look at the recommended weight gain guidelines based on your pre-pregnancy BMI.

Wrapping Up Week 17

At 17 weeks pregnant, both your body and baby are going through significant changes. Your baby is developing unique features and becoming more active, while your body continues to adapt to support this growth. Although some symptoms may be uncomfortable, they are a natural part of pregnancy.

Staying informed, eating a balanced diet, staying active with gentle exercise, and keeping up with your prenatal appointments can help you navigate this stage with confidence. Every week brings you closer to meeting your baby — and understanding what’s happening now can make the journey even more meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) What happens in the 17th week of pregnancy?

At 17 weeks, your baby is growing rapidly and developing distinct features. Eyelashes, eyebrows, and fingerprints begin to form. Your baby can now move their joints, make facial expressions, and may even start hiccupping. Meanwhile, your body is adjusting to support the baby — your uterus is expanding, and you may start to notice changes like stretch marks or a growing bump.

Q2) Is it normal to feel no movement at 17 weeks pregnant?

Yes, it’s completely normal. While some women may begin to feel light flutters around 17 weeks, many don’t feel any movement until closer to 18–20 weeks, especially if it’s their first pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different, so don’t worry if you haven’t felt anything yet.

Q3) How big should a baby be at 17 weeks?

At 17 weeks, your baby is about 13 centimetres long — roughly the size of a pomegranate — and weighs around 150 grams. However, growth can vary slightly from one baby to another.