25 Weeks Pregnant

Baby’s Development

Your baby now measures about 34.6 centimeters — about the size of a cauliflower or rutabaga — and weighs around 660 grams [1]. Those tiny hands are fully developed and can make a fist, grasp the umbilical cord, or even scratch a little face. The spine has formed its 33 vertebrae, 150 joints, and roughly 1,000 ligaments. The nervous system is sophisticated enough to produce complex reflexes and respond to pain. Your baby’s ears are fully functional and can recognize your voice, your partner’s voice, and music. The brain continues its rapid growth with billions of neurons at work. The skin is still somewhat translucent but less wrinkled, and lanugo covers the body. Movement is very active, with clear patterns between busy and sleeping times [2].

Body Changes

Your uterus has risen about 5 to 6 centimeters above your navel, somewhere between your navel and the bottom of your sternum. Most women have gained between 17 and 24 pounds by week 25, and the bump is clearly visible. You may notice stretch marks, the linea nigra, melasma, more visible veins, or varicose veins. Your breasts may be up about two cup sizes, and colostrum may leak. Some women develop PUPPP rash — itchy bumps on the belly that are harmless but uncomfortable. Your resting heart rate runs around 80 to 100 beats per minute, and you may feel short of breath as your uterus presses against your diaphragm [2].

Tips for Week 25

• Manage heartburn — eat small, frequent meals; avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods; don’t eat within 2 to 3 hours of bed; and elevate the head of your bed. Antacids like Tums or Rolaids are generally fine with your provider’s okay, and stronger options exist if it’s severe.
• Prevent hemorrhoids — aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day, drink 80 to 100 ounces of water, avoid straining, and try sitz baths or witch hazel pads. Don’t sit for long stretches.
• Improve your sleep — use a pregnancy pillow, sleep on your side, keep the room cool, limit screens before bed, and consider magnesium glycinate (with your provider’s okay) at a consistent bedtime.
• Get your glucose screening — if you didn’t do it at 24 weeks, do it this week. It’s the 50g Glucola, 1-hour test.

Things To Do (Checklist)

• Get glucose screening if not yet done
• Address heartburn: small meals, antacids, head elevation
• Treat hemorrhoids if present
• Optimize sleep: pregnancy pillow, side-sleeping, routine
• Continue daily kick counting (10 in 2 hrs)
• Cyst: continue to monitor; note any size changes at next scan

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m getting carpal tunnel. Is that permanent? A: No — pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel usually resolves after birth. Wrist splints in a neutral position, elevation, avoiding repetitive motion, and acupuncture can help. If it’s severe, your OB can refer you to a hand surgeon [1].

Q: I have insomnia. Any help? A: It’s common, especially as you move into the third trimester. Focus on sleep hygiene: a consistent bedtime, a cool room, no screens for an hour before bed, magnesium glycinate (200 to 400 mg), and Unisom if your provider approves. If anxiety is the driver, talk with your OB [2].

Q: Why am I short of breath? A: Your uterus is pushing your diaphragm up, which reduces your lung capacity. Slow down, rest more, sit up straight, and sleep propped up. If it’s severe, sudden, or comes with chest pain, call your OB [1].

Sources

1. ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
2. Mayo Clinic — 25 Weeks Pregnant
3. What to Expect When You’re Expecting — Heidi Murkoff (Chapters 14-15: Second Trimester)