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17 Weeks Pregnant...
Fatten up Baby
You're 17 weeks pregnant and your baby is now about 5 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs about 5 ounces.
The umbilical cord is growing stronger and thicker, while the placenta will continue to develop along with the baby. The placenta is big and well established with a web of blood vessels that exchange nutrients and waste.
At 17 weeks pregnant, the retina is sensitive to light and the baby can distinguish between light and dark, although the eyes are still fused together.
The cartilage is hardening into bone, and as the bones get harder, you'll feel the baby more and more. It will remain flexible so that the journey through the birth canal is a bit easier.
Fat continues to be deposited under the baby's skin, this is very important for heat production and metabolism. The fat will help the baby maintain his body temperature when he is born.
The first stools (meconium, which is made up of products of cell loss, digestive secretion and swallowed amniotic fluid) are now starting to collect in the baby's bowel.
Your baby's cerebral cortex has started to mature and the connections between the nerves and muscles are being organized.
The amniotic fluid is recycled by the baby swallowing up to a liter a day, and your baby is very flexible now.
You're not the only one
gaining weight Mom...
baby is finally packin' on the pounds too!
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