Pregnancy week 25

Your baby’s development

At 25 weeks your baby is about the size of a turnip. The highlight this week is hair and nose: the baby's hair is starting to gain texture and colour, the nostrils open, and your baby keeps practising breathing movements in the amniotic fluid. The spine and cartilage are getting stronger, and the baby can hold its hands and feet. The skin is still wrinkled, but it begins to smooth as more fat builds beneath it. A dense network of blood vessels under the skin gives it a pinkish look. Your baby hears sounds and may be starting to tell your voice apart from others. There are different movement patterns during sleeping and waking hours. Sometimes your baby reminds you of itself with a kick or hiccups. Measurements are averages, and sizes can vary a little from baby to baby. Development moves at its own pace in every pregnancy; your doctor interprets ultrasound measurements, and small differences are usually ordinary.

Changes in the mother

Sleep problems can increase in these weeks. A growing belly, restless legs, frequent trips to the toilet and the baby's night-time movements can all break up sleep. Some people have restless legs, a crawly feeling that often appears in the evening. A warm shower before bed, gentle stretching and a regular bedtime can help. Low iron or vitamin levels can make symptoms worse, so you may want to ask your doctor. Back and groin aches may continue. Braxton Hicks contractions are common too. Irregular, painless tightenings are usually harmless. Remember to drink enough water through the day. Swinging between joy and worry is common in pregnancy; sharing your feelings with people close to you, and asking for support if needed, is a good step.

To do this week

• If the glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has not been done yet, set a date with your doctor (usually weeks 24–28).
• Ask your doctor whether to check your iron and vitamin levels.
• Add a warm shower and stretching to your evening routine.
• Look into the hospital where you plan to give birth and how long it takes to get there.

Tip for the partner

An evening leg and foot massage may help her get ready for sleep.

Nutrition tip

Having tea or coffee apart from meals may help iron absorption.