Pregnant in week 25
In week 25 your baby is the size of a cauliflower. It is gaining fat, so the skin becomes smoother and pinker. From this week you can have a 3D/4D scan and see your baby's face – ideally around week 28.
Your baby in week 25
Your baby measures around 35 centimetres and weighs about 660 grams. It is now laying down fat under the skin, so the wrinkled skin gradually fills out and takes on a pinker colour.
The nostrils, which have been closed until now, open, and your baby begins to make breathing movements with amniotic fluid. The hands are fully developed with nails, and the grip has become stronger.
The sense of balance in the inner ear now works, so your baby knows which way is up and down. The blood vessels in the lungs continue to develop in preparation for the first breath.
Your body and symptoms in week 25
The bump is now large and round, and you may have gained seven to eight kilos. The uterus reaches well above the navel, and finding a comfortable sleeping position may start to take some getting used to.
Heartburn, constipation and haemorrhoids can be troublesome, as the growing uterus presses on the stomach and bowel. Some also get restless legs in the evening or swollen feet.
The movements are strong, and you are getting to know your baby's pattern. It is a good idea to keep feeling for movements daily and react if there are clearly fewer than usual.
Good advice for week 25
Book your 3D/4D scan
From week 25 you can see your baby's face in 3D. It is best around week 28, when there is enough fat under the skin and still plenty of room – book in good time.
Find good sleeping positions
Sleep on your side – either side is fine – with a pillow between your knees and under your belly. It relieves your back and gives your baby the best blood supply.
Keep feeling for movements
Know your baby's pattern and react if the movements become clearly fewer or weaker. Contact the maternity unit the same day if in doubt – even at night.
Eat against heartburn
Small, frequent meals, less fatty and spicy food and not lying down right after eating help. Your doctor can recommend safe remedies.
Checklists for this stage
Tick things off as you go – the list remembers where you got to, and you can share it with your partner.
Relevant with us in week 25
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 25
When is a 3D/4D scan best?
Between weeks 25 and 33, and ideally around week 28. By then your baby has enough fat under the skin for round features, and there is still room for a clear view of the face.
Is a 3D/4D scan safe for my baby?
Yes. It is ordinary ultrasound, just shown as a spatial image. It is used all over the world and considered safe when performed by trained staff.
Why do I have restless legs?
Restless legs are common in pregnancy and can be linked to iron or magnesium deficiency. Movement, stretching and possibly a supplement agreed with your doctor can help.
Your pregnancy – week by week, in your inbox
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Read on in week 25
Feeling life – when and how do you feel the first fetal movements?
Second opinion during pregnancy – extra peace of mind
