What’s happening in week 17 of your pregnancy?
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You may be able to feel your baby’s movements this week. This flutter of movement is known as “quickening”.
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Your little one is about five inches long (12.7 centimeters) and weighs around five ounces (nearly 150 grams).
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He can perform reflex actions. He needs to know these skills such as sucking and swallowing so he can receive nutrition properly after birth.
How is your baby’s brain developing?
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Your baby’s brain has developed to a point where it can regulate his heartbeat, which is now at a pace of 140 to 150 beats each minute.
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Support your baby’s cognitive work by eating more foods rich in the brain-boosting omega-3 fat, DHA.
What pregnancy symptoms might you experience this week?
Your baby’s weight has doubled in the last two weeks, which has also made you gain more weight at this pregnancy stage. Gaining too many pounds, however, can contribute to pregnancy and labor complications. Note these steps to manage weight gain and keep your pregnancy on a healthy track:
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Track your weight gain. You should be gaining 13 pounds (six kilograms) in this second trimester, and a total of 25 to 30 pounds (11 to 16 kilograms) throughout pregnancy.
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Eat a variety of essential nutrients to support your baby’s development thoroughly. For example, protein found in poultry meat builds your baby’s body and fatty fish, such as salmon, have DHA to fuel brain growth.
Mom’s tip of the week
Weight gain can also be regulated with regular exercise that is gentle on your body such as prenatal yoga and swimming. Remember to consult your doctor before doing any exercises during your pregnancy.
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