25 weeks pregnant: Is baby fully developed

Feeling your baby’s kicks and the glucose screening test.

Although it may look more like a small planet to you, your uterus is now the size of a football. Revel in the positive aspects of pregnancy: thick, glossy hair, long, strong nails and – if you’re lucky – a clear, glowing complexion. All these are yours for the next few months, so enjoy!

Let’s take a closer look at what 25 weeks pregnant looks like…

What to expect at 25 weeks pregnant

At 25 weeks of pregnancy, you are approximately 5.5 months pregnant. Pregnancy is typically calculated as 40 weeks, so at 25 weeks, you are about halfway through the pregnancy term.

What position is my baby in at 25 weeks?

At 25 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is likely still moving around frequently, but they may start to settle into a position that is more common for the later stages of pregnancy. While every baby is different, it’s common for babies to be in a breech position (with their head up and bottom down) or in a cephalic position (with their head down, ready for birth) by this stage. However, it’s also normal for babies to change positions frequently throughout the day at this stage of pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can give you more specific information about your baby’s position during your prenatal appointments.

Space is getting tight in the uterus as your baby puts on weight. Her movements will feel less like gentle flutters and more like vigorous kicks or punches and you may experience pain under your ribs or in your lower abdomen. Her increased size, plus the growing uterus, all put pressure on your bowel, bladder and rectum. There’s not a lot you can do to relieve the pain – the best thing is to lie on your left side (this is the ideal position for your baby’s circulation) and rest.

The glucose screening test for Gestational diabetes

The gestational diabetes test, also known as the glucose screening test, is typically conducted between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. This test helps to screen for gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. During the test, you’ll be asked to drink a sugary solution, and your blood sugar levels will be measured one hour later.

Up to 2 percent of pregnant women develop this condition, which develops pregnancy usually around the 24th to 28th week and usually disappears after the birth. It’s caused by the pancreas producing too little insulin to cope with the body’s glucose (sugar) levels.

Managing gestational diabetes involves monitoring blood sugar levels, following a balanced diet, staying physically active, and, in some cases, taking medication. With proper care, most women with gestational diabetes can have a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

Is my baby fully developed at 25 weeks?

Your baby now weighs about 680g and measures about 22cm from crown to rump. Once transparent, her skin is now becoming wrinkled and red. At 25 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is considered to be in the “viable” stage of development, meaning that with intensive medical care, they would have a chance of survival outside the womb. However, it’s essential to note that while many of your baby’s organs and systems are developed by this stage, they are still considered to be in the middle of their development process.

How do I know my baby is OK at 25 weeks?

While your baby is well-developed in many ways by 25 weeks, they still have several weeks of growth and maturation ahead before they are fully ready for life outside the womb. It’s essential to continue with regular prenatal care to ensure the health and well-being of both you and your baby throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.

Also, be aware of warning signs that may indicate a problem, such as vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, sudden swelling of the hands and face, or persistent headaches. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.