17 weeks pregnant

You and your baby went through many changes until you reached the 17th week of pregnancy. Inside the womb, the order now is to grow, with some things to improve. Outside, you need to take care of your health so that everything stays well.

Mom and baby are becoming more and more connected. He already feels the caresses in his belly and begins to hear the muffled external sounds. Only after the 20th, 21st weeks must he recognize the sound of his voice. Even so, it is interesting to start the sound stimuli.

The baby’s movements inside the belly are felt slightly and will intensify later on. If this is your first pregnancy, rest assured if you don’t realize it.

If you want to know a little more about how you and your baby are doing this week and some precautions you should take, read on.

 

Baby development

The baby’s measurements are between 11 cm to 13 cm and weighs between 100 g to 140 g and keeps growing. The organs are fully formed, with the exception of the respiratory system, which has trachea, bronchi and bronchioles, but the alveoli will only form in the 35th week.

The caseous vernix is ​​formed, a layer of fat that protects the baby’s skin, helps control the temperature and will facilitate passage through the vaginal canal at the time of delivery. After birth, experts recommend waiting 24 hours to give the first bath.

The first baby teeth are installed in the jawbone, but they will only appear months after birth. He already makes faces and yawns. The taste buds mature, but the nerve connections are immature.

He sleeps a lot, which is normal. He also moves a lot and already wants to play and explore the space. He discovers the umbilical cord, which ends up becoming a toy for him, which does not cause any harm.

 

What happens to mom

The belly will continue to grow, because your uterus expands and is 4 cm above your navel. Your heart rate increases due to the volume of blood and you feel more swollen.

This volume and the intense production of hormones make your face redder and you feel the well-known hot flashes, which persist until the end of pregnancy. Increased blood pressure can cause bleeding gums and nose.

The skin stretches to accompany the growth of the baby and the uterus which causes itching. At this stage, you must have gained around 2.5 kg and will gain an average of 500 grams per week.

Weight can cause back and pelvic pain.

 

Care that should be taken at this stage

The use of body moisturizers prevents the appearance of stretch marks. Research specific products for pregnant women, which are made with softer and odorless ingredients. Good for those who have a more refined sense of smell and tend to be bothered by strong smells.

Gingivitis, tooth sensitivity and cavities occur in pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. Consult a dentist and try to use a soft bristle brush.

Eating calcium-rich foods not only influences the baby’s development, but protects the mother from problems with teeth, nails and a greater likelihood of cramping and developing osteoporosis in the future. Calcium deficiency also increases the risk of pre-eclampsia.

Among the calcium source foods, in addition to milk and dairy products, are spinach, kale, chia, sesame, soy, arugula, quinoa and spices based on dried herbs, such as basil.

 

Hair care in pregnancy

For some women, pregnancy makes their hair shiny and bulky, others make it greasy and there are still those who are more fragile and dry.

Dyes, chemicals and some hair products have components, such as ammonia, lead, formaldehyde, aluminum, which are bad for the baby and can also be bad for you, who are more sensitive in many ways.

Those who have curly hair, for example, need to avoid certain treatments. Likewise, those who paint frequently will need to find more natural and safer alternatives.

Before using any product, talk to your doctor. In the first quarter, it is best to avoid. Among the options, henna can be a way to dye white hair, but it must be 100% natural. Toners without ammonia are another suggestion.

A tip for curly hair is to take advantage of this period for a hair transition. In addition to avoiding problems for the baby, it will serve for a rest from the chemicals and your hair will be very beautiful.

 

How to prevent cramps in pregnancy

Cramps are a nuisance in pregnancy from the second trimester. They happen mainly due to lack of nutrients and the increase in weight, which occurs at this stage.

To prevent them from appearing, it is recommended to eat a diet rich in calcium and potassium, increase your fluid intake, practice light exercises such as yoga and stretching and avoid staying in the same position for a long time, taking turns and be sitting or standing. Massages also help to relieve pain.