you're 17 weeks pregnant.
last revised · baby is about 13 cm (5.1") · 140 g (4.9 oz)
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is about 13 cm and 140 g — A waxy coating called vernix starts to protect the skin.
about the size of a…
A waxy coating called vernix starts to protect the skin. Sweat glands form, and the umbilical cord grows thicker and stronger.
this week's highlights
- Vernix coats the skin
- Sweat glands develop
- Umbilical cord thickens
- Hearing sharpens
how your baby looks
Skin is still see-through but now covered with a creamy waxy coat (vernix caseosa) that protects it from amniotic fluid.
body in focus
- head
- Hearing is sharp enough to recognize your voice.
- body
- Vernix and sweat glands form.
- hands
- Fine fingernails are growing toward fingertips.
- feet
- Strong rhythmic kicks may start being noticed.
what's happening in your body
Your bump is more visible. You may notice back discomfort starting up — posture matters as the belly grows.
symptoms at 17 weeks
- Stronger, more regular flutters
- If quickening has begun, movements gradually become more distinct and frequent. No fixed pattern is expected yet — that comes in the third trimester.
- Increased appetite
- The baby is entering a rapid growth phase and your hunger often follows. Aim the extra intake at protein, calcium and iron rather than grazing on sugar.
- Dry, itchy skin over the bump
- Skin stretching over the growing belly commonly itches. Moisturiser soothes it; intense itching, especially of the palms and soles, should be reported to your midwife as it can signal a liver condition (ICP).
- Sciatica or hip twinges
- The loosening of pelvic joints and the shifting bump can irritate the sciatic nerve, sending twinges down the buttock and leg. Position changes, warmth and gentle stretching usually ease it.
- Vivid dreams continuing
- Strange, cinematic dreams remain common through mid-pregnancy. They are a normal quirk of hormones and lighter sleep.
- Feeling warmer and sweating more
- Your metabolism and blood volume keep climbing, so you run hot. Layers, breathable fabrics and plenty of water are the practical answer.
gentle tips
- Practice good posture; stand tall and keep shoulders back.
- Wear low-heeled, supportive shoes.
- Plan or take a prenatal class if you haven't.
- Apply moisturizer to belly, hips, and breasts to soothe stretching skin.
- Limit time on your feet — break up long standing with sit-downs.
your week 17 checklist
- Start researching childcare options and costs if you plan to return to work — waiting lists in some areas are long
- Do a car seat and car check: which seat fits your car, and does anything need upgrading
- Book a babymoon or any longer trip for the 18-to-28-week window, the most comfortable travel stretch
- Begin sorting the room or corner that will become the baby's space
what to expect next
The anatomy scan in 1–5 weeks will check on heart, brain, kidneys, and limbs in detail. You can also learn the sex if curious.
common questions at week 17
How big is the baby at 17 weeks?
At 17 weeks, the baby measures about 13 cm and weighs approximately 140 g (13 cm (5.1") · 140 g (4.9 oz)).
What is developing at 17 weeks?
Skin is still see-through but now covered with a creamy waxy coat (vernix caseosa) that protects it from amniotic fluid. Hearing is sharp enough to recognize your voice. Key milestones this week include: Vernix coats the skin; Sweat glands develop; Umbilical cord thickens; Hearing sharpens.
What symptoms are common at 17 weeks pregnant?
Your bump is more visible. You may notice back discomfort starting up — posture matters as the belly grows.
What should I do at 17 weeks pregnant?
The anatomy scan in 1–5 weeks will check on heart, brain, kidneys, and limbs in detail. Practice good posture; stand tall and keep shoulders back. Wear low-heeled, supportive shoes. Plan or take a prenatal class if you haven't.
Is it safe to travel and fly during the second trimester?
Yes — weeks 14 to 28 are widely considered the best window for travel, with nausea gone and the bump still manageable. On flights, walk regularly and stay hydrated to reduce clot risk, and carry your maternity notes. Check your airline's policy and travel insurance terms, and clear long-haul plans with your midwife if you have any complications.
Why does my belly itch and should I worry?
Mild itching over the bump is usually just skin stretching and responds to regular moisturising. The pattern that needs attention is intense itching — classically of the palms and soles, often worse at night — without much rash, which can indicate intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver condition needing monitoring. If your itching fits that description, call your midwife or doctor rather than waiting for your next appointment.
How much weight should I be gaining each week now?
Through the second and third trimesters, typical gain is roughly 0.2 to 0.5 kg per week, with a healthy total of around 11.5 to 16 kg for someone who started at a normal BMI — less if starting heavier, more if starting lighter or carrying twins. Steady is more important than exact. Your midwife will flag it if your pattern needs attention, so there is no need to weigh yourself obsessively.
helpful tools
- Belly Timeline
Document your bump week by week with photos.
- Kick Counter
Track fetal movement — kicks usually begin around week 18–22.
- Milestones
Week-by-week milestones tied to your due date.
Medically aligned with guidance from WHO, NHS and ACOG. How we write.