Week 25 Pregnancy: Your Baby Responds to Sounds and Light

At the 25th week of pregnancy, you’re well into the 6th month of pregnancy, entering a remarkable stage of growth and development for your baby. By now, your little one is growing rapidly, responding to sounds, and their brain is forming vital connections. Their tiny lungs and other organs continue to mature, preparing for life outside the womb. Meanwhile, you may notice stronger movements and changes in your body as your baby becomes more active. This week is all about embracing these milestones and staying mindful of your health as you prepare for the third trimester.

Missed last week? Dive into all the details and important milestones from the previous pregnancy week 24 here.

Week 25 body changes

At week 25, your body is adapting to support your growing baby. Your uterus is expanding sideways, making your baby bump more prominent, and your breasts are growing rapidly in preparation for breastfeeding. You may notice deeper and more painful varicose veins in your legs due to increased blood flow and pressure.

Swelling in your hands and feet might also cause pain or numbness from compressed nerves, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. High progesterone levels may lead to frequent colds or nasal congestion caused by swollen nasal membranes. Staying hydrated, elevating your legs, and taking breaks can help ease these symptoms. If discomfort becomes severe, consult your doctor.

Week 25 pregnancy symptoms

As your baby continues to grow, your body goes through various changes that may bring new symptoms. Here are the common pregnancy symptoms in 25 weeks pregnant you might experience this week:

1) Constipation

• If you’re struggling to go to the bathroom, you’re not alone. Higher pregnancy hormones like progesterone levels relaxes your bowels, slowing digestion. 

• Changes in diet due to cravings and the extra iron from prenatal vitamins can also contribute to this. Drinking plenty of water, eating fibre-rich foods such as vegetables, and staying active can help.

2) Insomnia

• Getting a good night’s sleep may feel impossible as your body adjusts. Frequent bathroom trips, heartburn, constipation, body aches, leg cramps, and even your baby’s active movements can keep you awake. 

• Anxiety or excitement about your new arrival may also add to sleepless nights. Creating a bedtime routine and using supportive pillows can help improve your sleep.

3) Snoring

• If you find yourself snoring more, it’s due to fatigue and swelling (oedema) in your nasal passages caused by hormonal changes. This is temporary and common. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier may help reduce snoring.

4) Frequent urination

• With your baby growing and putting more pressure on your bladder, you may find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often. This will likely increase as your pregnancy progresses into the third trimester.

5) Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

• You may feel an uncontrollable urge to move your legs due to sensations like crawling, itching, or tingling. Cutting out caffeine or sugary drinks and using a heating pad or warm compress can provide relief.

6) Heartburn

• Your growing uterus pushes on your stomach, causing digestive discomfort like heartburn. Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy foods, and sitting upright after meals can help manage this.

7) Backache in pregnancy

• As your belly grows, your posture changes, leading to back pain. Gentle stretches, wearing supportive shoes, and using a maternity belt can help reduce discomfort.

If you have any concerns or would like professional advice, Thomson Medical is here to support you. Request an appointment with us today to ensure that you and your baby receive personalised care during this exciting journey.

Your baby at week 25

At 25 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is about the size of a 2-litre soda bottle, measuring around 32 cm (12.5 inches) from head to toe and weighing approximately 700g. Your baby's skin is becoming less transparent as more blood vessels develop, giving their skin a cute pink appearance. They’re starting to look more like the baby you'll soon meet!

At this stage, your baby can even detect different scents in the amniotic fluid, which helps them develop their sense of smell. As their startle reflexes begin to develop, avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might frighten them.. You may also start feeling baby hiccups, which feel like small, rhythmic jerks inside your belly. These are normal and a sign of your baby’s developing diaphragm muscles.

Pregnancy tests & screenings 

You are still within the recommended window to screen for gestational diabetes using the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) or the Glucose Challenge Test (GCT). If you are at risk for preeclampsia, your healthcare provider will continue to monitor your blood pressure and test your urine for protein regularly until your due date to ensure your safety.

Below is a summary of the key tests and screenings for this stage of pregnancy:

Learn more about our prenatal scans for each trimester here.

At Thomson Medical, we offer personalised pregnancy tests and screenings tailored to each week of your pregnancy. You can always request an appointment with us to discuss your pregnancy journey.

Preparing for Week 25 pregnancy

As you approach week 25 of pregnancy, it’s essential to stay proactive about your health and well-being while preparing for the changes your body and baby are experiencing. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for this exciting stage:

• Prioritise nutrition: 

  • Continue to eat healthy foods and have a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, and fibre to support your baby’s rapid growth and keep your energy levels up. Staying hydrated is equally important to prevent issues like constipation and swelling.

• Schedule prenatal screenings: 

  • If you haven’t already, plan for your glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes. Stay on top of regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, baby’s growth, and overall health.

• Focus on sleep comfort: 

  • With symptoms like insomnia and restless legs becoming more common, invest in supportive pillows and create a calming bedtime routine to improve your sleep.

• Stay active: 

  • Engage in light exercises such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to reduce discomfort, improve circulation, and maintain your strength for the months ahead.

• Consider prenatal classes: 

  • If you haven’t already, week 25 is an ideal time to enrol in prenatal classes. These classes can help you feel more prepared for labour, delivery, and caring for your newborn, giving you the knowledge and confidence you need for the weeks ahead.

• Prepare for body changes: 

  • Swelling in your hands and feet, leg cramps, and nasal congestion are common at this stage. Elevate your feet, avoid standing for long periods, and use a humidifier to ease these symptoms.

• Plan for the third trimester: 

  • Start researching childbirth classes (antenatal classes), prenatal workshops, and preparing essentials for your baby’s arrival. This is a good time to create a birth plan or discuss delivery preferences with your healthcare provider.

• Monitor baby’s movements: 

  • Pay attention to your baby’s kicks and activity patterns, as they’re becoming more regular and noticeable. Share any significant changes with your doctor.

Thomson Medical’s prenatal and childbirth courses & workshops are designed to provide you with professional, step-by-step guidance on your pregnancy, delivery and caring for your newborn. Register for our courses here.

Excited to know what’s next? Explore pregnancy week 26 to learn about your baby’s growth and development while discovering tips to manage the changes in your body. We understand that preparing for pregnancy can be overwhelming, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment with our specialists for personalised care and professional support to guide you through your pregnancy journey. 

FAQ

Is my baby fully developed at 25 weeks pregnant?

At 25 weeks, your baby is not yet fully developed but is making significant progress. Major organs like the lungs, brain, and digestive system are still maturing. Their lungs are developing air sacs, and they are practising breathing movements by inhaling amniotic fluid. The brain is rapidly forming connections, and their senses, such as hearing and touch, are becoming more refined. While your baby still has a way to go before being fully developed, they are growing stronger every day in preparation for life outside the womb.

What is the baby's position at 25 weeks?

At 25 weeks pregnant, your baby is still small and has plenty of room to move, so their position can vary frequently. They might be lying head-up, head-down, or even sideways as they shift and stretch in the amniotic fluid. You may feel their movements as they roll, kick, and flip around. It’s too early for your baby to settle into a final position for birth, as this usually happens closer to the third trimester.

How should I sleep at 25 weeks pregnant?

At 25 weeks pregnant, the best sleeping position is on your side, preferably the left side. This position improves blood flow to your baby and reduces pressure on your organs, such as the liver and kidneys. Use a pregnancy pillow or regular pillows to support your belly, back, and knees for added comfort. Avoid lying flat on your back, as it can compress major blood vessels and reduce circulation. Prioritising a comfortable side-sleeping position will help you rest better and support your pregnancy health.

How big should my bump be at 25 weeks?

At 25 weeks pregnant, the size of your baby bump can vary depending on factors like your body type, pre-pregnancy weight, and whether this is your first pregnancy. On average, your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball and sits about 25 cm (10 inches) above your pubic bone. Your baby bump will be noticeable and growing steadily as your baby continues to develop. If you have concerns about your bump’s size, your healthcare provider can measure your fundal height (the distance from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus) to ensure your baby is growing appropriately.

Is it normal to have quiet days at 25 weeks?

Yes, it’s normal to have quieter days at 25 weeks of pregnancy as your baby’s movements can vary. Babies have sleep cycles, and some days they may be less active. However, you should still feel regular movements throughout the day. If you notice a significant decrease or no movement for an extended period, it’s best to contact your healthcare provider for reassurance.

What are the dos and don’ts for a healthy pregnancy at 25 weeks?

Dos:

• Eat a balanced diet: Include healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and iron-rich foods to support your baby’s growth.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and ease symptoms like swelling and constipation.

• Get light exercise: Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

• Prioritise sleep: Sleep on your side, preferably the left, for better blood flow and use pillows for support.

• Attend prenatal appointments: Stay on top of routine check-ups and screenings, such as the glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes.

• Monitor baby’s movements: Pay attention to patterns and contact your doctor if you notice significant changes.

• Take prenatal vitamins: Continue taking folic acid, iron, and other supplements as recommended.

Don’ts:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both can harm your baby’s development.

• Limit caffeine: Stick to 200 mg or less daily (about one or two cups of coffee or tea).

• Steer clear of raw or undercooked foods: This reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses like listeria.

• Avoid heavy lifting: It can strain your back and cause discomfort.

• Don’t lie flat on your back: This can compress major blood vessels and affect circulation.

• Skip high-mercury fish: Avoid fish like shark, swordfish, or king mackerel.

• Don’t ignore unusual symptoms: Severe pain, bleeding, or reduced baby movement should be reported to your healthcare provider.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.