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Stages of Pregnancy Week by Week

Pregnancy Week 17

In week 17, your baby is really starting to move. Get tips on making daycare decisions, dealing with dizziness, and more.

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Month 5

Watch Your Baby's Growth

Second Trimester Begins: Weeks 13 to 17 of Pregnancy
Second Trimester Begins: Weeks 13 to 17 of Pregnancy

Here's to hoping you're no longer feeling nauseated or exhausted! Right now your baby's brain and eyes are making dramatic strides each day. Learn all about it.

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Your Changing Body

Your belly may have been rounding out for a few weeks now, but pretty soon it's going to start to really pop (so everyone will be able to tell you're actually pregnant -- as opposed to simply more snack-happy). And once the world at large can see that you're expecting, get ready for lots of knowing smiles!

Your Developing Baby

Finally, your baby's arms, legs and trunk have caught up to the size of his head. Baby starts plumping up this week, as body fat is deposited under his skin and sweat glands develop. Also, the placenta is almost as big as your baby.

Tip of the Week

Wondering whether it's safe to eat fish? Your baby-to-be can benefit big-time from brain-boosting omega-3-rich fishes such as salmon. But some varieties should be avoided due to high levels of mercury, a pollutant that can affect baby's developing brain and nervous system.

to do list

Your Week 17 To-Do List

1. Combat your "pregnancy brain" with reminders.

ultrasound week 17

An Inside Look

Take a unique look at Baby's development inside the womb this week.

Pregnant woman crossing off the days until the birth

Your Pregnancy Calendar

Organize your doctor's appointments, save your ultrasound photos, and more--all in one place!

Ask Parents About Week 17

We've got answers to your questions from experts and parents who've been there.

See All Questions or Ask Your Own

Everything in Pregnancy Week 17

More About Your Pregnancy in Week 17

Your Baby

Your Body

  • Feeling Your Baby Move

    Find out what your baby's first movements will feel like in your belly.

  • Dizziness

    Dizziness is normal until you feel like you might lose consciousness.

  • Herniated Disks

    If you're experiencing continuous back pain, you may have a herniated disk.

  • Kidney Stones

    Kidney stones can develop during pregnancy, but there are often non-surgical fixes.

  • Low-Back Pain

    Low-back pain is very common in the second trimester. Here are few simple remedies.

  • Even More Frequent Urination

    If you felt like you were running to the bathroom a lot during your first trimester, it is probably only going to get worse during the ...

  • Terminating a Pregnancy

    If you're faced with the unfortunate choice between terminating a pregnancy or having a child with a severe disability, it's best to ta...

Your Self

  • Making Daycare Decisions

    Now is a great time to explore your daycare options and check out various facilities.

  • Maternity Leave Laws

    Be sure to find out what maternity leave laws exist in your state before determining how much time you will request off from work.

  • Single Moms

    Single moms never have to go through pregnancy alone -- there are many great people and resources you can turn to when you need them.

Diet & Exercise

  • Alternative Exercises

    Try these gentler exercises when high-intensity activities are no longer comfortable.

Q & A

  • Q&A: Do I Need a Bigger Home?

    If you're thinking about buying a bigger home for your expanding family, be sure you've thought through all the big issues that come wi...

First Trimester

Second Trimester

Third Trimester