When I was 25 weeks pregnant, I remember feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. There was this new sense of “wow, I’m halfway there” — but at the same time, I was starting to really feel the physical toll pregnancy takes on your body. The swelling, the backaches, and the struggle to find a comfy position at night were all real challenges. But what made everything feel a bit easier was knowing that my baby was growing strong and healthy, and that brought me comfort through the discomforts.
If you’re 25 weeks pregnant right now, you might be feeling the same way — that unique mix of excitement for the future and an increasing awareness of how your body is changing. At this point in your pregnancy, your baby’s growth is accelerating, and so are the symptoms you may be experiencing. But don’t worry, mama — I’ve been there, and I’m here to walk you through it. I’ll share all the important details about what’s going on with your baby, what’s happening to your body, and practical tips for making the most of this exciting (and sometimes exhausting) stage.
In this article : [+]
1. Your Baby’s Development at 25 Weeks Pregnant
At 25 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly, and so much is happening inside your belly. Here’s what’s going on with your little one:
Size and Weight
Your baby is now about the size of a cauliflower or acorn squash — roughly 13 to 14 inches long and weighing between 1.25 and 1.7 pounds. That’s a lot of growth in just a few weeks!
Growing Fat
Your baby’s skin, which was once thin and wrinkled, is now starting to smooth out as they accumulate fat. This fat helps regulate their body temperature after birth. It’s such a reassuring sign that your baby is getting ready for the outside world!
Hearing and Movement
Your baby’s sense of hearing is fully developed now, and they can recognize your voice. You might notice that they move or kick in response to loud sounds or familiar voices. I loved talking to my baby during this time, knowing they could hear me and feel my touch.
Lung Development
Your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly. They’re starting to produce surfactant, which will help their lungs inflate once they’re born. This is a huge milestone, and it means that your baby’s body is becoming more capable of surviving outside the womb.
Practice Breathing
Your baby’s nostrils are now open, allowing them to take practice “breaths” by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. It’s amazing to think about how much your baby is learning and preparing for life outside!
2. Changes in Your Body at 25 Weeks Pregnant
As your baby grows, your body is undergoing some significant changes too. Here’s what to expect at 25 weeks pregnant:
Pronounced Baby Bump
By this stage, your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball, and your baby bump is definitely more noticeable. Some moms find that their belly button starts to pop out around this time, and I definitely experienced that too. It’s a funny reminder of how much your body is changing!
Itchy Skin
As your belly and breasts grow, the skin stretches, which can cause some discomfort and itchiness. I remember constantly moisturizing to help relieve the dryness, and it worked wonders! Keeping the skin hydrated helps prevent stretch marks and soothes that pregnancy itch.
Digestive Issues
The growing uterus can put pressure on your digestive organs, which may lead to issues like indigestion, heartburn, constipation, and gas. I remember feeling sluggish at times, but eating smaller meals and drinking plenty of water really helped. Try to avoid heavy or spicy foods if you’re dealing with heartburn.
Aches and Pains
With your body changing so much, aches and pains are common. Back pain, pelvic pain (like SPD), and hip pain (sciatica) are all things that can crop up. I found that using a pregnancy pillow for support and doing gentle stretches helped ease the discomfort. It’s normal, but don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!
Swelling
Swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles is common at 25 weeks pregnant. It’s caused by fluid retention, and while some swelling is normal, sudden or severe swelling should be reported to your doctor. I always found relief by elevating my feet and drinking lots of water.
3. Practical Tips for Staying Comfortable at 25 Weeks Pregnant
Now that you know what’s happening with your baby and body, here are some tips to help you stay comfortable during this exciting stage:
Stay Active (But Take It Easy)
It’s important to stay active during pregnancy, but don’t overdo it. Gentle exercises like walking or swimming are great for improving circulation and easing back pain. I loved taking short walks in the morning or evening, and it helped me stay energized throughout the day.
Hydrate and Keep Your Skin Moisturized
Drinking plenty of water is key to managing swelling and preventing constipation. I made sure to drink water throughout the day and keep a bottle with me at all times. Also, don’t forget to moisturize your growing belly and breasts to help with itching and prevent stretch marks. I used a rich body butter and found it made a big difference.
Take Time to Rest
Pregnancy can be tiring, and it’s important to listen to your body. Take breaks when you need them and try to get plenty of sleep. A pregnancy pillow can help you find a comfortable position at night, and it supported my back and belly. Don’t hesitate to nap if you’re feeling tired — you’re growing a tiny human, after all!
Eat Balanced, Smaller Meals
With your baby growing, you might find yourself feeling more hungry. To avoid indigestion and heartburn, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Stick to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and avoid overly greasy or spicy foods. I made sure to keep healthy snacks on hand, which helped keep my energy levels stable.
Prepare for Your Glucose Test
At 25 weeks pregnant, you’ll likely be scheduled for your glucose challenge screening test. This test checks for gestational diabetes and is an important step in your pregnancy care. I remember feeling a bit nervous about it, but the test was quick and easy. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on fasting or eating beforehand.
4. Expert Insights on Pregnancy at 25 Weeks
Expert Insight on Baby’s Development
Dr. Sarah Williams, OB-GYN, shares, “At 25 weeks, your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly, and their ability to breathe is improving with each passing day. The baby is also becoming more active, and their movement is becoming more noticeable.”
Advice on Aches and Pains
According to the American Pregnancy Association, pelvic pain and sciatica are common at this stage. If you’re experiencing these pains, gentle stretching and proper posture can help. If the pain is severe, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for advice.
5. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, I know pregnancy can be tough sometimes, but remember — you’re doing an amazing job! At 25 weeks pregnant, you’re in a huge milestone. Your baby is growing, and your body is adjusting to all the changes. Take it one day at a time and don’t forget to ask for help when you need it. Celebrate the small wins, like feeling your baby move more or getting through the day without too much discomfort. You’ve got this!
What’s been your biggest pregnancy milestone so far? Is it feeling more baby kicks or tackling the swelling? Share your thoughts in the comments below — I’d love to hear from you! And if this post helped you, don’t forget to share it with a friend who’s also expecting. Let’s support each other through this amazing journey! 💕
📖 Want to see every stage? View all weeks of pregnancy →