My baby at 17 weeks of pregnancy

This week, your baby is about the size of a bell pepper. This means your fetus is at about 5½ inches long and weighs about 6½ ounces.

You've made it this far which is like almost halfway!

• Nail Growth: Your baby is starting to develop nails on their fingers and toes.
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  Physical Interaction: They are now able to touch their toes and face, exploring their growing body.
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  Placenta Development: While fully formed by 18 to 20 weeks, the placenta continues to grow, playing a crucial role in nourishing your baby and will weigh nearly 16 ounces at term.
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  Lung Preparation: Your baby is practicing breathing movements with amniotic fluid, preparing their lungs for life outside the womb. The development of alveoli in the lungs is crucial for oxygen exchange post-birth.
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  Facial Expressions and Reflexes: Yawning and hiccuping are new skills your baby has mastered, contributing to their growing repertoire of movements.
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  Nervous System Development: The nervous system is rapidly expanding, with myelin forming around nerves to speed up neural connections. The brain's sensory areas are also developing, enhancing touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing.
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  Sex-Specific Development: Depending on your baby's gender, reproductive organs are also developing. For girls, the fallopian tubes, uterus, and ovaries are in place, with ovaries containing a lifetime supply of eggs. For boys, the testicles are descending, and the penis is visible.

• Vitamin D Intake: Essential for your baby's bone, teeth, immune system, brain, and nervous system development. Aim for 15-20 minutes of sunlight exposure daily to boost your vitamin D levels naturally.
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  Stay Hydrated: Incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables into your diet to help meet your hydration needs. Watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, lettuce, and celery are excellent choices.
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  Maintain Physical Activity: Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to support your health and prepare your body for childbirth. Always listen to your body and adjust your activities as needed.
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  Optimal Sleep Position: Sleeping on your left side can improve blood flow to your baby and reduce swelling and back pain. Use a pillow between your knees for added comfort and to maintain proper hip alignment.