Week 25 of Pregnancy

Key Takeaways at Week 25

• Things are becoming real! Your bump is no longer concealable, and you've definitely gained over 6 kg so far

• In your womb, the baby is developing a consistent sleep-wake cycle. If you're concerned about your baby's lack of movement, try sipping juice or eating a nutritious snack to see if it gets them to move

• Pregnancy symptoms abound. You may have difficulty sleeping, particularly with that bump in the way. As organs move and your uterus enlarges, you may suffer heartburn and frequent urination. You may also be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions

• At 25 weeks pregnant, an ultrasound is unlikely, unless your OB-GYN has ordered further monitoring. If you have not previously had the glucose challenge screening test to rule out gestational diabetes, you may be scheduled for one soon

• If you are in Week 25 of your pregnancy you are in the second trimester and in the sixth month

• 15 more weeks remaining in your pregnancy

Baby's Movement and Baby’s Development at Week 25

Babies love their new sense of equilibrium. Yes, your foetus is learning which way is up and which is down. At 25 weeks of foetal development, the baby is gaining more fat and hair!

The baby's hands have also completed their development. They can now grip anything that comes their way.

Your child is already learning the value of having downtime. Baby is experiencing resting and alert phases, and you may notice some of these movements while your foetus is active. Baby is also having REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. This implies their eyes move quickly even while their eyelids are closed.

Your foetus is developing more hair on its lovely little head, and if a loud sound startles it, it may bounce about unexpectedly in your womb. Your baby may also react to your voice by wriggling or experiencing hiccups, and their eyelids may open this week!

You should be experiencing plenty of amazing foetal movement right now. Your baby has a lot of space to move in the womb and will be kicking, punching, and shifting positions all the time. You could detect movement patterns. For example, your infant may get more jiggly after eating specific meals or exercising. Enjoy this special time of pregnancy.

Your doctor may advise you to watch your baby's kick counts, which may give you confidence that your baby is active and awake.

• Baby Weight: Around 680 grammes
• Baby Length: 13 inches long
• Baby Size: Comparable to corn.

Pregnancy Symptoms and Body Changes This Week

Your body is undergoing rapid changes during week 25 of pregnancy. As your baby develops, so will you, and you may feel certain pregnancy symptoms at this period.

• Your hair is becoming thicker and shinier. Enjoy your gorgeous hair.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome and restless legs syndrome are prevalent and potentially serious symptoms at this point in your pregnancy. Restless legs syndrome often occurs when lying down or attempting to sleep, so make efforts to maintain good sleep patterns. You may need to consult with your doctor to ensure you are receiving all of the nutrients you need, such as additional iron
• Heartburn or indigestion is another typical symptom, so avoid meals and beverages that can aggravate you, such as spicy foods or coffee.
• Your eyes might get uncomfortable. Dry eyes and occasional impaired vision might be symptoms of pregnancy
• Pelvic pressure, constipation, and increased blood volume all raise your risk of haemorrhoids. While haemorrhoids are more frequent in the third trimester, they may occur earlier. They will usually go away after you deliver. Take preventive actions such as eating high-fibre meals and drinking plenty of water
• Increased uterine pressure may also induce sciatica, which is hip and lower back pain caused by the sciatic nerve. Ice might bring some respite. Tell your doctor if the pain is severe or if your legs or feet go numb
• It is normal to have moderate contractions, known as Braxton Hicks, around 25 weeks. They may feel like menstruation cramps or uterine tightness. These contractions, sometimes known as false labour, may last up to two minutes and are normally safe

Body Changes This week

When you're 25 weeks pregnant, weight gain might cause concern. We know we've been advising you to gain gently and gradually, but it's also normal for the number on your scale to fluctuate throughout the second trimester. Part of this might be attributed to the amount of water weight that pregnant women gain throughout the middle of their pregnancy. And, practically, gaining the same amount of weight each week is impossible; there will always be some variations. Your doctor just wants you to set a target of healthy weight gain in order to keep yourself and your baby as healthy as possible. (Also, so your third trimester isn't painful since you're carrying so much more weight!)

So don't worry about a few additional kgs; instead, maintain your good diet and activity habits. If your weight increase is really a concern, your doctor will let you know. It is normal to be concerned about your weight, however, just know that every pregnant woman goes through this.

25-week ultrasound

It is unlikely that you will get an ultrasound at 25 weeks pregnant unless your doctor has ordered further monitoring for the baby. If you haven't already seen the OB, you will this month. Starting in week 28, your visits will be every two weeks.

The glucose challenge screening test will take place between weeks 24 and 28, so if you haven't already scheduled an appointment, do so now. You will be asked to drink a sweet solution, and your blood will be collected to determine how your body processes sugar. This test may rule out gestational diabetes or raise a red signal, in which case your doctor will recommend more testing.

Your Baby Bump at Week 25

At 25 weeks pregnant, your growing tummy will feel tight and itchy, and your body may feel a bit stretched out. Your hormones might be causing you to have multiple emotions at this stage. Whatever you're feeling, realise that it's alright. There is a lot to get accustomed to, so, mood swings are absolutely normal.

Tips and Exercises for Week 25

Being 25 weeks pregnant is an important milestone for both you and your baby. Here's some additional professional advice on how to transition to this new stage while keeping you and your baby safe.

• Heart palpitations are frequent during pregnancy because your heart pumps 50% more blood at a higher rate than usual. Pay attention to when you notice flutters, skips, racing or hammering in your heart and notify your doctor. It should not be a cause for concern, but it is always a good idea to convey any new information.

• Your tummy and expanding breasts are probably feeling tight and itchy right now, and moisturising them often can help. Find a rich belly cream that relieves the itch, but remember to drink lots of water and avoid hot showers and strong soaps, which may further dry up your skin.

• Although you cannot actually monitor your own eyes, you should be aware of any changes in your eyesight or eye health. Pregnancy might briefly cause blurred vision and dry eyes. Vision abnormalities may potentially indicate issues such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, so see your doctor if you notice any changes.

• Eating healthy helps you stay energised and maintains your body and baby healthy. It may also help you prevent uncomfortable symptoms such as constipation. Focus your meals on complete, fresh foods and whole grains.

• With your expanding tummy and changing body, you may need to adjust your workout routine.

Checklist for Week 25

• Start speaking with the baby; they can hear you now!
• Begin practising your kegels, for starters, it may make labour and delivery a little simpler
• Schedule a prenatal massage
• Look into cribs, strollers, and baby carriers, whether new, borrowed, or used. If your baby gear is secondhand, be sure it meets current safety standards
• If you drive, look into car seats; you may want to buy new or from a reputable provider

Frequently Asked Questions on Week 25 of Pregnancy

1. How may I relax my pelvic pain while pregnant?
   Pelvic discomfort may be caused by a variety of factors during pregnancy, including muscular shifting to accommodate your expanding belly. There are many things you may do to get relief. Try applying a warm compress to the sore spot or stretching the painful muscles. You might also try wearing a support belt to help hold up your developing belly and relieve strain on various places of your body.
2. How does a baby look at 25 weeks in the womb?
   Your 25-week-old foetus is developing more hair on its lovely little head, and if a loud sound startles them, they may bounce about unexpectedly in your 25-week baby bulge. Baby may also react to your voice by wriggling or experiencing hiccups, and their eyelids may open this week!