17 weeks pregnant
Week 17 is the period that corresponds to the first week of the fifth obstetric month. The child's condition is stable, the expectant mother usually does not experience any unpleasant sensations during this period. A noticeable tummy slightly restricts her movements, but this circumstance does not prevent a pregnant woman from being very attractive. To maintain your well-being at a high level, you need to follow the doctor's recommendations, eat right, lead an active lifestyle, not forgetting to rest on time.
Content:
- What happens in the female body at 17 weeks?
- What's going on with the baby?
- What's going on with mom?
- How does the uterus change?
- How does the belly change?
- First fetal movements
- Analyzes and examinations
- Pregnancy after IVF
- Pain sensations
- Vaginal discharge
- Taking vitamins and medicines
- Intimate relationship
- Weight gain dynamics
- Meals at week 17
- A special problem is a frozen pregnancy
- Expert advice
What happens in the female body at 17 weeks?
In the fifth obstetric month of pregnancy, the uterus and the fetus inside it grow at an incredibly fast pace. The woman's cardiovascular system works intensively, since the blood volume has increased significantly due to the placenta saturated with blood vessels. Heart palpitations can be a manifestation of the active work of this organ, which conducts nutrients to the fetus. The fragility of blood vessels due to increased load on their walls sometimes leads to nosebleeds.
An increase in the total volume of fluid in the body of a pregnant woman affects the volume of vaginal discharge, causing increased sweating. Careful adherence to the rules of personal hygiene can protect a woman from negative feelings.
Too small a belly is not a cause for concern, the main thing is that the baby's heartbeat is clear and well listened to.
What's going on with the baby?
At the 17th week of pregnancy, the formation of adipose tissue of the fetus begins, but its skin remains thin and transparent. The body fat will be used for normal thermoregulation of the baby immediately after birth. The sensitive skin of the fetus is covered with pinkish-white primordial lubricant and fluff - lanugo.
Fetal parameters at 17 weeks:
- Weight - 140 g;
- CTE (coccygeal-parietal size) - 13 cm;
- Height - 15-18 cm.
The hearing aid of the unborn child is ready for work, and he does not like loud harsh sounds. With the help of an ultrasound scanner, you can see how the baby reacts to noise with chaotic, rapid movements. From this week on, we can say with confidence that he distinguishes between the voice of his mother and father, loves melodic singing and pleasant music. Fetal development researchers argue that babies who have spoken to during pregnancy recognize their voices after birth and respond positively to music previously given to them.
The child distinguishes not only sounds, but also reacts to bright light, turning his face to a bright lamp brought to his stomach, although his eyes are still covered with eyelids.
Internal organ development at week 17:
- The immune system began to produce its own interferon and immunoglobulin for additional protection of the fetus from infections;
- The endocrine glands (pituitary and adrenal glands) produce their own hormones;
- The heart pumps blood intensively, the fetal heart rate is still twice the mother's;
- Following the rudiments of milk teeth, the rudiments of permanent teeth are formed;
- The fetus can swallow and hiccup;
- In a female fetus, a uterus is formed;
- The testicles of a male fetus are in the abdominal cavity, they already have the rudiments of the first sperm.
The fetus is actively moving at week 17, moving in the uterine cavity. He no longer differs in appearance from a newborn baby in anything, except for size - the proportions of the body have returned to normal.
Amniocentesis - when is it needed and is the procedure safe for the fetus?
What's going on with mom?
The appearance of a pregnant woman changes. Her nose and lips may swell, her facial features become somewhat rounded, and an unexpected blush may appear on her cheeks. The thyroid gland is currently experiencing increased stress, intensively producing hormones. A hyperfunction of this organ can cause weakness, heart palpitations, and excessive sweating. With such symptoms, you should consult a doctor to correct the condition.
An increase in the size of the uterus leads to a displacement of the organs of the digestive tract. Compression of the stomach and intestines responds with heartburn, the appearance of flatulence. The problem is partly helped to solve the correct diet - you need to eat 3-5 times a day in small portions.
Increased stress on the kidneys, heart, musculoskeletal and digestive system leads to increased fatigue and requires frequent rest.
How does the uterus change?
The uterus rises higher, pushing the internal organs. At 17 weeks, its bottom is at a distance of 3-5 cm from the navel, the height of the uterus above the pubis is 17 cm. The volume of amniotic fluid has also increased and is 500 ml.
A significant increase in the pregnant uterus leads to difficulties in choosing a sleeping position. Sleeping on the stomach is now impossible, the position in the supine position aggravates the pressure of the uterus on the vena cava, while impairing blood flow in the placenta.
How does the belly change?
At this time, the abdomen will probably be visible in plump women, as well as in those who are suffering the second and subsequent pregnancies. Primiparas with a slender figure, strong peritoneal muscles and a trained abs can keep their position secret for now. The belly may be barely noticeable at 17 weeks if the baby is at the back of the uterus or in its lower part.
The basic rule is that you can no longer wear clothes with a tight belt, tight underwear, wardrobe items made of synthetic fabrics.
First fetal movements
At 17 weeks, you can already feel weak fetal movements. They are still so delicate that, without experience of pregnancy, it is difficult to distinguish them from the sensations caused by food or gases moving through the intestines. If a woman does not notice fetal movements by this time, it is advisable to contact her gynecologist so that he can listen to the baby's heartbeat and perform an ultrasound scan. The onset of perturbations at 22 weeks during pregnancy, proceeding without pathologies, is also a variant of the norm, so you should not be upset in advance.
Analyzes and examinations
When visiting the antenatal clinic, the obstetrician-gynecologist will measure the blood pressure, weight, and height of the uterus in a pregnant woman, offer to take a urine test and pass the "triple test" of the second screening, if the expectant mother has not passed it yet.
The studied blood parameters and their norm:
- Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - from 6140 to 103000 honey / ml;
- Alpha-fetoprotein - from 30 to 90 honey / ml;
- Free (unconjugated) estriol - from 9.9 to 18.9 nmol / L.
A deviation from the norm indicates possible chromosomal abnormalities of the fetus and genetically determined diseases.
Pregnancy after IVF
In vitro fertilization of an egg and subsequent pregnancy require a woman's very careful attitude to the slightest changes in her well-being. High doses of hormones during preparation for IVF can disrupt the endocrine status of a pregnant woman, so it needs to be closely monitored for additional research.
Hormone therapy in preparation for artificial insemination leads to impaired hemostasis (blood circulation), which already carries an additional load. Women who become pregnant with IVF most often have a history of complications of gynecological diseases, which further increases the risk of miscarriage. During the management of such a pregnancy, ultrasound is often done, the level of hormones is measured, and the development of the unborn baby is screened.
Pain sensations
The threat of spontaneous termination of pregnancy at this time is small, and the first place is the sensation of stretching the ligaments of the uterus. The nature of the pain can be aching or "shooting" with a rapid change in body position, their intensity ranges from minor to pronounced sensations, similar to pain during menstruation. The best tactic is to wear a prenatal brace that supports the uterus, rest more often, and not make sudden movements.
Pain in the tailbone and in other parts of the spine may be due to the fact that the weight and volume of the uterus have increased, and the load on the spinal column has increased. In this case, swimming, water aerobics, and feasible physical education exercises for pregnant women will help.
Vaginal discharge
Light translucent discharge of a small volume with a slight sour smell is the norm at 17 weeks of gestation. Accession of pus, mucus, flakes, curdled clots, a color change from white to yellow or green are signs of infection of the vagina or candidiasis. During pregnancy, local immunity suffers, so inflammatory pathologies appear more often than usual. Any change in the nature of vaginal discharge is a reason to visit a doctor and take a smear for urogenital infections.
Candidiasis (thrush) often accompanies pregnancy, manifested by burning and itching in the vagina, hyperemia of the mucous membrane of the external genital organs and cheesy discharge. Normally, the fungus of the genus Candida is always present in the female intimate microflora in small quantities. The onset of pregnancy is the reason for its rapid growth. With candidiasis, both sexual partners should be treated, otherwise relapses of the disease are inevitable.
Taking vitamins and medicines
Cramps in the limbs, brittle hair and nails, unusual taste preferences are possible symptoms of vitamin deficiency and mineral deficiency. A gynecologist will recommend special complexes for pregnant women. To compensate for the deficiency of necessary substances, you need to diversify your diet with vegetables, fruits, berries. In addition, you should take Iodomarin or Iodine-active to maintain the thyroid gland.
Any medications during pregnancy are taken only if absolutely necessary and in consultation with the doctor. There are very few pharmaceuticals approved for pregnant women. When treating somatic diseases, the attending physician must necessarily know about the patient's pregnancy.
Intimate relationship
A woman's sexuality does not disappear during pregnancy; on the contrary, hormonal changes lead to increased attraction. Sexual intercourse gives an emotional outburst, provokes the production of an endorphin called the "hormone of joy". Intimate relationships stimulate blood circulation in the reproductive organs, contribute to strengthening mutual understanding between spouses.
During this period of pregnancy, the following contraindications to sex may occur:
- Placenta previa;
- Risk of miscarriage;
- Infections, inflammatory diseases of the genitals of both spouses.
The appearance of pain, bloody discharge is a reason to stop sexual intercourse and see a doctor.
Weight gain dynamics
The difference between weight before pregnancy and weight at 17 weeks can range from 2.5 to 3.5 kg. For a week, the increase in body weight now ranges from 250 to 300 g. The dynamics of weight gain depends on the complexion of a woman, her type of physique, dietary habits, and initial indicators.
Meals at week 17
The main requirements for a pregnant woman's diet are high-quality foods, rich in nutrients, and their balanced inclusion in the menu. The more varied the dishes delivered to the pregnant woman's table, the easier it is to provide the fetus with material for the formation of organs and tissues.
Diet - frequent meals in small portions. To avoid stagnant phenomena in the digestive system (heartburn, constipation, flatulence, bloating), after eating you need to walk in the fresh air, move.
Recommended foods and dishes:
- Soups and jelly for the prevention of heartburn;
- Fermented milk products, cheese, cottage cheese, as a source of calcium;
- Foods containing a large amount of iron for the production of red blood cells in the blood that carry oxygen (liver, beef, pomegranate juice, apples).
You should not abuse fatty and fried foods, pickles and smoked meats, which provoke increased secretion of gastric juice.
A special problem is a frozen pregnancy
Cessation of fetal development can occur for various reasons. Among them - hormonal imbalance, Rh-conflict between mother and child, the consequences of infection. The body may not immediately begin to reject the ovum, at first the pregnancy fades. This condition is sometimes not accompanied by any symptoms, but at the next examination, the obstetrician-gynecologist must diagnose the problem.
Symptoms:
- Lack of fetal movement;
- Temperature increase;
- Bloody or bloody discharge;
- No signs of pregnancy (toxicosis, breast swelling);
- Pain in the lower abdomen and lower back.
A frozen pregnancy is terminated in a hospital setting, a woman is prescribed a course of anti-inflammatory drugs and procedures, and psychological assistance is offered.
Expert advice
To carry and give birth to a healthy baby, you need to change your lifestyle, adhere to reasonable restrictions and doctor's recommendations.
- A negative emotional background will lead to the birth of a nervous and restless child, stress and conflict situations should be avoided.
- Loud music, noisy events will affect the condition of the fetus, bringing him negative impressions.
- To prevent varicose veins during pregnancy, you should not spend a lot of time on your legs, in the evening it is good to do foot baths, keep them in an elevated position.
- A comfortable sleeping position - lying on your side, with a small pillow clamped between your bent knees, or on a special feather bed for pregnant women;
- Smoking and drinking alcohol leads to placental abruption, fetal developmental defects, premature birth, prerequisites for the appearance of neurological pathologies in a child in early childhood. Therefore, a pregnant woman needs to give up bad habits.
- To prevent edema, you should wear low-heeled shoes, loose clothing that does not restrict movement, breathing and blood circulation.
- Any malaise, pain, atypical discharge is a reason for an urgent visit to a doctor.
The author of the article: Lapikova Valentina Vladimirovna | Gynecologist, reproductologist
Education: Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynecology received at the Russian State Medical University of the Federal Agency for Healthcare and Social Development (2010). In 2013 completed postgraduate studies at N. N. N. I. Pirogova.
