Week 25 Pregnancy: What to Expect, Things to Avoid, and Tips for 25 Weeks Pregnant

Congratulations! If you're 25 weeks pregnant, you've officially entered the sixth month of your pregnancy journey. This is a special stage of pregnancy where your baby bump becomes more noticeable and engaging. At week 25 of pregnancy, you will be flooded with a lot of unsolicited advice from people around you. While friends and family have the best intentions, their advice may not necessarily be good for you and your baby as every pregnancy journey is unique. As your body continues to adapt to the growing life inside, it's essential to understand what changes to expect, what symptoms are normal and what you should be doing to prepare for the future. 

In this blog, you will find answers to all the questions you may have at week 25 of pregnancy. We have compiled expert advice for everything from tips to things to avoid at 25 weeks pregnant.  

Track your baby's development at 25 weeks pregnant 

At 25 weeks pregnant, by this time, your baby’s development must be progressing beautifully. By now, your baby would measure approximately 13.6 to 14.8 inches and weigh about 1.5 to 2.5 pounds, nearly the size of a cauliflower. The baby's lungs are maturing as they start producing surfactant, which is necessary to breathe after birth. Now, your baby's senses are developing with vigour. They can respond to light and sound. You may find that the baby is becoming more active and begins to move around in their tiny world within the womb. As the baby's skin gains more fat, it will become less translucent. 

Pregnancy Developments at 25 Weeks Pregnant 

• Having a ball 

Now that you are 25 weeks pregnant, your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball, so it is natural that your organs are feeling squished. Measuring from your pubic bone up to halfway between your belly button and your sternum, your uterus is about 25 centimetres in diameter.  

• Diabetes check 

Performed between 24 and 28 weeks, a glucose screening test looks for the 25th week of pregnancy signs like gestational diabetes, a high blood sugar condition that affects 2 to 5 percent of pregnant women and usually goes away after birth. The test itself is simple: A few minutes after drinking a sugary solution, your blood is drawn and your sugar levels are tested. If your blood sugar is high, another blood glucose test is performed to determine if you have gestational diabetes. Treatment involves a special diet and, in a few cases, medication.  

• Common Pregnancy Symptoms 

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common during the 25th week of pregnancy, and they may be caused or aggravated by not urinating promptly or completely. One sign of a UTI is a need to urinate frequently during pregnancy. Another is a feeling of urgency — like you really need to go — but nothing happens. You may feel burning or pain when you urinate, or your urine may have an unpleasant odour. If you have these symptoms, call your doctor right away. UTIs are easily cured but can cause very serious complications if left untreated during pregnancy.  

• Varicose Veins 

Increased blood flow can cause the appearance of varicose veins, mostly in the legs. Keeping your legs slightly elevated as you rest can help alleviate some of the discomfort.  

• Swelling (Edema) 

Experiencing mild swelling of ankles and feet is common when you are 25 weeks pregnant. Avoid standing for long periods and keep yourself hydrated to reduce swelling.  

• Braxton Hicks Contractions 

These “practice” contractions might be more noticeable now as your uterus prepares for labour.  

• Trouble Sleeping 

Finding a comfortable position may be challenging as your belly grows. Using a pregnancy pillow can help you get comfortable and get that much-needed rest.  

• Frequent Urination 

As your baby and uterus grow, they may put pressure on your bladder, causing more frequent trips to the bathroom. 

25 Weeks Pregnant: What you should be preparing for 

• Get a glucose screening test to look for signs of gestational diabetes 

• Be on the lookout for signs of urinary tract infections, which are common during pregnancy. 

•  Get week-by-week expert tips on pregnancy to keep track of your baby’s development & to ensure the well-being of both you & your baby during the entire nine-month journey! 

• Plan your maternity leave 

• Sign up for weekly pregnancy tips 

• Begin gathering some of the things you’ll want for your time in the hospital: comfortable clothes, toiletries, anything your baby will require. 

• If you haven’t already signed up for a childbirth class, now is probably a good time to sign up for one to learn more about what to expect while you’re giving birth. 

• Ensure that the nursery or baby's sleeping area is ready, including assembling any necessary furniture and selecting bedding. 

• Maintain regular prenatal appointments and discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider. 

Bottom Line 

Reaching week 25 of pregnancy is an exciting time filled with noticeable changes and anticipation. From developing baby bump to your little one becoming more active, each day brings new changes. By being mindful of what to avoid at 25 weeks pregnant and planning, you can help ensure an easy, healthy pregnancy journey for both you and your infant.