Week 25 of pregnancy: growth and development of the baby

March 11, 2024 Manuel Fernández

Mum, you are in week 25 of your pregnancy. At Happymami, we understand perfectly the emotions and challenges you experience on this journey, because we are mums and midwives who have lived through and supported women like you at this unique stage.

We are aware that this middle stage of pregnancy brings many questions and exciting discoveries, and that is why we are here to provide you with valuable information backed by the latest scientific evidence. In this article, we will immerse you in everything you need to know about week 25 of pregnancy, from the exciting developments in your baby's health to the changes in your own body.

At Happymami, we are committed to being your guide and constant support on the beautiful journey towards motherhood. So get ready to explore and discover more about this exciting world of motherhood in week 25. We are with you every step of the way!

If you do not want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Baby development in week 25 of pregnancy

In week 25 of pregnancy, your baby's development continues to be a constantly evolving wonder. As we move into this exciting stage, it is fascinating to observe how your little one changes day by day.

As for size, your baby measures around 30 centimetres from head to feet and weighs around 660 grams, which is about the weight of an aubergine. But what is really happening inside?

One of the most exciting developments is that their skin, which was previously very wrinkled and translucent, is now beginning to become smoother and pinker as the layers of fat develop. This not only gives them a healthier appearance, but also helps to regulate their body temperature when they are born.

Their senses continue to develop quickly. Their hearing improves, and your voice and the sounds around them become more noticeable to them. You may start to notice that they react to sound stimuli, such as music or your loving voice.

As for their movements, your baby is now a little acrobat in the womb. Their kicks, turns and twists are more obvious than ever. You may feel their movements more often and more strongly, which creates a special connection between you and your baby.

Your little one's brain development also continues to advance. Their brain is becoming more complex, with trillions of neurons connecting and forming the foundations for thought, memory and motor coordination. In addition, their central nervous system is gradually maturing.

At this stage, your baby's lungs continue to develop, and although they are not yet completely ready for breathing outside the womb, this is an important step towards respiratory independence.

Symptoms in week 25 of pregnancy

In week 25 of pregnancy, you will probably experience a variety of symptoms as your body adapts to the changes that come with your baby's growth. Here are some of the common symptoms you might experience:

Increase in the size of your bump: As your baby keeps growing, your belly will expand even more. This can cause discomfort and a feeling of fullness.

Noticeable foetal movements: Your baby's movements are more noticeable than ever. You can feel kicks, turns and twists regularly, which is usually exciting and reassuring.

Back pain: The growth of the uterus and the weight gain can put pressure on the lower back, which can cause discomfort. Practising good posture and doing strengthening exercises can help to relieve the pain.

Fatigue: Tiredness is common at this stage of pregnancy. Your body is working hard to support your baby's development, so make sure you rest enough.

Urinary frequency: The growing uterus can put pressure on your bladder, which could increase the need to urinate more frequently.

Skin changes: Some women may experience skin changes, such as the appearance of dark patches (melasma) on the face or the linea alba on the abdomen. These changes are usually temporary.

Constipation: Pregnancy hormones can slow down the digestive system, which can lead to constipation. Make sure you keep to a fibre-rich diet and drink enough water to help relieve this symptom.

Difficulty sleeping: Finding a comfortable position to sleep in can be a challenge at this stage. Use pillows to support your body and consider sleeping on your side to improve your blood circulation.

Braxton Hicks contractions: You may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are mild and irregular uterine contractions. These contractions are normal and help to prepare the uterus for birth.

Increased sweating: Some women notice that they sweat more than usual due to hormonal changes. This is completely normal.

If you do not want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

Risks in week 25 of pregnancy

In week 25 of pregnancy, your baby's development advances quickly, but some specific risks can also arise that are important to know about and manage:

Premature birth: Regular contractions, pressure in the pelvis, or loss of amniotic fluid could indicate a risk of premature birth. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Gestational diabetes: At this stage, it can be diagnosed with the glucose tolerance test. Poor control of blood sugar levels could affect both the mother and the baby, increasing the risk of macrosomia (a large baby) and complications during birth.
High blood pressure and pre-eclampsia: Watch for symptoms such as persistent headaches, blurred vision or sudden swelling in the hands and face, as they could be early signs of pre-eclampsia.
Urinary tract infections: More common due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the uterus on the bladder. Pain or burning when urinating, fever or general malaise should be treated immediately to avoid complications.
Anaemia: The demand for iron is high at this stage, and a deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness or dizziness. An iron-rich diet or prescribed supplements may be necessary.
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): Regular medical check-ups ensure that the baby is growing properly and that the blood flow through the placenta is sufficient.
Swelling and carpal tunnel syndrome: Fluid retention can cause discomfort in the hands and wrists. Resting and raising the limbs helps to relieve these symptoms.
Back and pelvic pain: Weight gain and the shift in your centre of gravity can intensify the discomfort. Gentle exercises and correct posture are key.

It is always essential to keep up your regular antenatal check-ups and to communicate any problem.

If you do not want to miss the exciting path of pregnancy, we invite you to follow our Happymami pregnancy calendar. We are here to help you on this adventure!

How does the mum-to-be feel in week 25?

In week 25 of pregnancy, mums-to-be may experience a mixture of emotions and feelings as they move through this crucial stage of their journey towards motherhood.

Excitement and anticipation grow as they approach the third trimester and the birth of their baby. Every day that passes brings them closer to that magical moment when they will be able to hold their baby in their arms and look them in the eye, which fills their hearts with joy and anticipation.

However, along with the excitement, it is also normal for worries and anxieties to arise. Mums-to-be may feel concerns about their baby's health, the birth process, motherhood and how they will adapt to the changes to come.

Fatigue can be a factor that affects your mental state at this stage. Weight gain, hormonal changes and physical discomfort can contribute to fatigue, which in turn can affect your mood.

In addition, many mums-to-be become more aware of themselves and of their body during pregnancy. This can lead to greater reflection on the role of motherhood in their lives and on how they are changing as individuals.

At the same time, some women experience a feeling of empowerment as they recognise their ability to bring a new life into the world. This empowerment can increase their confidence and self-esteem.

Hormonal changes can also influence mood and emotions. Some mums-to-be may experience fluctuations in their feelings and emotions due to these hormonal variations. In addition, if you are worried about the breastfeeding process, Happymami can support you with its made-to-measure bottles, increasing the acceptance rate.

The presence of a strong support system, whether partners, family or friends, plays a vital role in the mental wellbeing of the mum-to-be. Feeling supported and understood can help to relieve stress and anxiety.

Every woman is unique and may experience these emotions differently. If a mum-to-be feels overwhelmed, anxious or experiences symptoms of depression, it is essential to seek professional support and to talk to a doctor or a therapist in order to receive the right support and to ensure her emotional wellbeing during pregnancy.

Week 39 of pregnancy: Happymami tips

At Happymami, we deeply understand what you are going through, because we are mums and midwives who have been through these experiences and we are committed to supporting you in this unique moment.

To help you feel prepared and confident in this final stretch, we want to share some valuable tips with you:

Take care of yourself: Use these last days of pregnancy to take care of yourself. Take time to relax, enjoy a relaxing bath, practise meditation or prenatal yoga and rest as much as you can.

Keep good communication with your healthcare professional: Keep an open dialogue with your doctor or midwife. If you have any question or concern, do not hesitate to express it. They are there to support you and give you guidance.

Follow a balanced diet: Healthy eating is essential at this stage. Make sure you include nutrient-rich foods, such as fruit, vegetables, lean proteins and wholegrains. Keep properly hydrated by drinking enough water.

Stay physically active: If your doctor allows it, continue with a gentle exercise routine adapted to your condition. Exercise can help to relieve stress and keep your body fit for the birth.

Prepare your birth plan: If you have not done so yet, work on your birth plan. Consider your preferences and wishes for the birth and share them with your medical team to ensure a positive experience.

Hospital bag: Pack your bag for the hospital in advance. Make sure you include essential items for you and your baby, such as comfortable clothes, toiletries, important documents and baby items.

Emotional support: Talk to your partner, family and friends about your emotions and expectations. Emotional support is crucial at this stage.

Know the signs of labour: Familiarise yourself with the signs that labour is starting so that you can recognise them when the time comes. This will help you to make informed decisions about when to contact your healthcare professional.

Sex: If you have doubts about having sex at this stage, check with your doctor to make sure that it is safe.

Follow the safety guidelines: Make sure you follow the car safety recommendations when installing the baby car seat and familiarise yourself with how it works before the birth.

Frequently asked questions: week 25 of pregnancy

How can I relieve back pain at this stage?

To relieve back pain in week 24 of pregnancy:

Keep a good posture when standing or sitting.
Do strengthening exercises for your back and core.
Practise gentle stretching and prenatal yoga.
Use support pillows when sleeping.
Apply warm or cold compresses as needed.
Consider gentle massages from a specialist therapist.
Choose comfortable footwear and avoid high heels.
Avoid lifting heavy objects and do your activities with care.
Consult your healthcare professional if the pain persists or is severe.

How can I manage stress and anxiety during pregnancy?

To manage stress and anxiety during pregnancy, it is important to take care of your emotional wellbeing in the following ways:

Make time for relaxation practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, to reduce stress and stay calm.
Talk openly and honestly about your worries with your partner, family or trusted friends. Sharing your feelings can help to relieve anxiety.
Exercise regularly, such as walking or swimming, to release endorphins that improve your mood and reduce stress.
Prioritise good quality sleep by keeping a regular sleep routine and using pillows for greater comfort.
Keep a balanced diet and avoid excess caffeine and sugar, as proper nutrition can have a positive influence on your mood.

Is it normal to have patches or skin changes during pregnancy?

Some skin changes, such as melasma or the linea alba, are normal because of hormonal changes and usually disappear after the birth.

How can I prepare emotionally for the arrival of the baby?

It is important to talk about emotions with loved ones, to consider taking antenatal classes and to create an emotionally supportive environment.

What can I do if I experience Braxton Hicks contractions?

Sit down or lie down and change position. Sometimes a change in body position can help the contractions to stop or to become less intense.
Stress and fatigue can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions. Rest and relax when you feel these contractions, especially if you have been doing physical activity.
On the other hand, dehydration can increase the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions. Drink water regularly to stay hydrated.