As you enter week 25 of your pregnancy, you are likely to experience a range of exciting changes to your body and baby’s development. This stage marks the end of the sixth month of pregnancy.

Baby’s Development

Your baby is now the size of a cauliflower, measuring around thirteen and a quarter inches in length and weighs around one and a half pounds. Your baby’s head, arms, and legs are now in proportionate size to each other, and the limbs are longer.

Your little one’s nervous system continues to develop, and they are now capable of making coordinated movements like grasping and blinking. Your baby’s lungs are still developing, and they’re beginning to produce surfactant, which is a substance that helps the lungs inflate with air after birth.

Mother’s Changes

At 25 weeks pregnant, you’ve likely gained about fifteen pounds, and your uterus is now around the size of a soccer ball. You may start experiencing backaches and difficulty sleeping due to increased discomfort caused by your baby’s size.

You might experience an increase in vaginal discharge that is thin, whitish, and odorless (leukorrhea), which is perfectly normal during pregnancy. Expectant mothers also go through hormonal changes that can affect their skin, leading to stretch marks and pigmentation changes.

Common Symptoms

The second trimester of pregnancy is often cited as the most comfortable period. After week 25, expectant mothers usually start experiencing more discomfort as the baby grows and puts pressure on their internal organs.

Here are some of the typical symptoms experienced during this stage:.

Back and pelvic pain: As the baby grows, the extra weight puts pressure on your lower back and pelvis, which can be uncomfortable.
Heartburn: Hormonal changes, combined with the growing uterus, can cause acid reflux and heartburn.
Braxton Hicks contractions: These are practice contractions that may feel like a tightening in your uterus. This is normal and helps to prepare your body for labor.
Swollen feet and ankles: Increased swelling of the feet and ankles, also called edema, is common in late pregnancy.

Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise remain essential components of your pregnancy journey. As your baby grows, you need to ensure you’re getting enough nutrients to support their development.

Aim to eat a well-rounded diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources daily. Drinking plenty of water can help manage swelling, aid in digestion, and prevent dehydration. Exercise is equally important during pregnancy and can help reduce discomfort, improve your mood, and prepare your body for delivery.

Focus on low-impact activities that are appropriate for pregnant women, such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga.

Preparation for Labor and Delivery

As your due date approaches, it’s important to start preparing for labor and delivery. It would help if you discussed your birthing plan with your healthcare provider.

They can help answer any questions or concerns you may have and provide guidance on what to expect. Consider attending childbirth classes, which can provide valuable information on labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

Discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider ahead of time so that you can make an informed decision when the time comes.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is an exciting, albeit sometimes challenging, experience. During the 25th week of pregnancy, expectant mothers should keep a close eye on any changes in their body and babies’ development.

Be sure to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen, discuss your birthing plan with your healthcare provider, and prepare for the big day ahead.