17 Weeks Pregnant: What You Should Know

Due dates are only an estimate. Statistically, 96% are incorrect. If you are currently 14 weeks pregnant, then you are due in approximately 23 weeks or 158 days. Due dates are calculated at 40 weeks of pregnancy, but your baby might be born between 37 and 42 weeks. Some are born earlier and some later. Put simply, labour happens when your body and baby are ready!

Use our pregnancy calculator to work out when you might be due.

As your baby grows, your body is adapting in some remarkable ways. Here’s what you might notice this week:

• Belly expansion. Your uterus is expanding to make space for your growing baby, and you may notice your bump becoming more visible. Your clothes are likely starting to feel tighter, so if you haven’t already, it might be time to consider maternity wear.
• Increased blood flow. Your blood volume continues to increase, which might give you that “glowing” pregnancy complexion. Or, let’s be honest, a slightly flushed, sweaty look – both are completely normal!
• Weight gain. You’re likely gaining weight at a steady pace now, but it’s important to remember that this varies from person to person. On average, you might have gained 5 to 10 pounds by this stage. Keep focusing on maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet to support both your body and your baby.
• Breast changes. Your breasts are still adjusting to your pregnancy. They may feel tender, and the area around your nipples may become darker in preparation for breastfeeding.

Pregnancy symptoms can vary widely, but here are some of the common ones you might experience at 17 weeks:

• Mood swings and anxiety. Thanks to hormones, you might still be feeling a bit all over the place emotionally. One minute you’re weeping over an advert, the next you’re rage-cleaning the kitchen. Be gentle with yourself!
• Round ligament pain. As your uterus grows, the ligaments supporting it stretch, causing sharp or aching pain on the sides of your abdomen. Completely normal, but definitely annoying.
• Stretch marks. As your body stretches to make room for your growing baby, you may notice some early signs of stretch marks on your belly, breasts, or thighs. These marks are a natural part of pregnancy, though using moisturisers or oils may help alleviate discomfort and keep your skin feeling soft.
• Pregnancy brain. Forgetfulness, trouble focusing, or feeling scattered are all common symptoms of the brain fog that can happen during pregnancy. If you’re putting your keys in the fridge or walking into rooms and immediately forgetting why – have grace with yourself!
• Excessive salivation (yes, really)! This is a much rarer symptom, but don’t be alarmed if you experience it. Known as ptyalism, this strange condition is due to hormonal changes in pregnancy, particularly increased oestrogen levels, which can stimulate the salivary glands. While it can be a pain for some women, it generally resolves in the second trimester.

While your body is undergoing many changes, there are ways you can take care of yourself and feel your best during week 17:

• Stay hydrated. Water is your new best friend. Not only does it keep you feeling fresh, but it also helps prevent pregnancy classics like bloating, constipation, and UTIs (because peeing 500 times a day is bad enough without adding an infection to the mix). Keep that water bottle handy!
• Exercise regularly. Moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga will keep you feeling strong and energised. This can also help alleviate symptoms like backaches or leg cramps.
• Rest when you need it. You might be feeling more energetic these days, but growing a tiny human is still exhausting work. Nap like it’s your job, put your feet up when you need to, and remind yourself that resting is not “lazy” – it’s strategic energy conservation.
• Eat like you mean it. A balanced diet packed with fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains is your ticket to a healthy pregnancy. And if you haven’t already, chat with your healthcare provider about antenatal vitamins, with folic acid being particularly important.
• Consider a pregnancy pillow. As your bump expands, sleep might start feeling like an Olympic sport. A pregnancy pillow can help support your back, belly, and general sense of comfort. It can be an absolute game-changer!

As you move through week 17, now is a great time to start thinking ahead. Consider these steps to prepare for the months to come:

• Antenatal classes. If you haven’t already, why not start researching some support classes for expecting mums? These classes can help you feel prepared and informed when it comes to childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care. The Butterbean Pregnancy and Postnatal Membership is the all-in-one motherhood resource – it covers everything you need for the whole journey!
• Maternity leave. It might seem a bit early, but discussing maternity leave with your employer can give you peace of mind as you begin to plan for your time off.
• Baby names and nursery ideas. While you have plenty of time until you meet your little one, it’s never too early to start brainstorming baby names and ideas for your nursery. Starting the creative process now can make everything feel a bit more real – get that Pinterest board going!

At week 17 of pregnancy, you’re well into the second trimester by now. In fact, the halfway point is just around the corner! Your baby is growing stronger and more active every day, while your body continues its incredible work of nurturing new life. With energy levels (hopefully) on the rise and your bump making its presence known, now is the time to be extra gentle with yourself. You’re doing an amazing job, and there’s so much to look forward to!

Be sure to check out the Butterbean knowledge hub for your week by week guide to pregnancy plus lots more from birth to babe in arms. Did you know we also have courses? Check out our multi award-winning hypnobirthing and pregnancy yoga courses today!