The fetus now weighs more than the placenta. Although his ears have not still developed fully, your baby can hear sounds and can yawn. Your baby swallows amniotic fluid and starts to form the first stools called meconium. The fetus’s blood circulation has fully developed and your baby’s umbilical cord has become so strong and thick that it meets all the baby’s needs. At week 17, the baby will start to collect fat under the skin. This is important for maintaining body temperature.
By now you may have gained over 5 kilograms. But don’t worry if you weigh more or even less. Throughout your pregnancy, you will gain around 10-15 kilograms. You may sweat more than usual, experience nasal congestion, or feel the need for more fresh air. These symptoms are caused by growth in blood supply in the body and they disappear after birth.
Perhaps you are one of those women who will get stretch marks during pregnancy. If this is the case, then be assured that they get lighter after birth and will be barely noticeable. You may not be able to avoid pregnancy stretch marks, but you can do something about them. Try to avoid putting on too much weight, eat healthy and exercise, be sure to drink lots of water, this will keep your skin elastic. Also, you may consider using special creams or oils containing coconut oil, castor oil, shea butter, or aloe vera. These also relieve belly itchiness. If abdominal cramps bother you, try sleeping on your left side, it improves blood circulation. If this trick doesn’t work and your belly hurts continually, consult your doctor.
You may find it uncomfortable but you must still fasten your seatbelt when driving, make sure that the lower belt runs underneath your belly. If you like, you can buy a special safety belt fastener made for pregnant women.