Week 25 of Your Pregnancy

Find out how your body is changing—and baby is developing—during week 25 of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy Journey Week 25

Design By Alice Morgan / Illustration by Tara Anand

As you edge nearer and nearer to your third trimester, you probably have many questions, i.e. you probably want to know what contractions feel like and when you will really give birth. But whether you are worried, excited, or a mix of both, knowing what to expect will help you manage your emotions during week 25 of your pregnancy—and beyond. 

Here’s everything you need to know about this monumental week, from common symptoms, needs, and worries to tests and doctor’s appointments.

Pregnancy Week 25 Quick Facts

  • At 25 weeks, you're six months pregnant
  • You have 15 weeks until your due date
  • You're in your second trimester

Your Unborn Baby's Size at 25 Weeks

Grow, baby, grow. At 25 weeks, your unborn baby is around 13.62 inches and 1.46 pounds, or about the size of an acorn squash.

Pregnancy Symptoms Week 25

Toward the end of the second trimester, your developing baby continues to grow, and your body is gearing up for the big day—and beyond. You may begin to experience new symptoms this week, says Victor R. Klein, M.D., MBA, BPHRM, FACOG, FACMGG, DFASHRM, the system director of quality and patient safety, obstetrics, and gynecology with Northwell Health. Dr. Klein, who specializes in high-risk pregnancies, says these symptoms may include:

  • Insomnia
  • Indigestion (heartburn)
  • Itchy skin
  • Carpal tunnel
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Breast discharge

You've probably had more than a few people look at your bump and quip you should "sleep while you can," but Dr. Klein says sleep struggles are normal at this stage. "Insomnia is a common complaint for many reasons: frequency of urination at night, stronger kicking by the baby, generalized itchiness, and heartburn," Dr. Klein says.

You may have plans to support your baby to sleep, but you can make some tweaks to support yourself for now. "Difficulty sleeping can be decreased by not having caffeine or eating late in the evening, sleeping with a pillow to support the abdomen, and/or sleeping on more than one pillow to relieve heartburn," Dr. Klein says.

You can also reduce or nix heartburn by watching what you eat and/or taking certain medications. "Heartburn can be alleviated by avoiding spicy foods and caffeine as well as taking over-the-counter medications, like Tums or other medications which are safe in pregnancy,” Dr. Klein says. 

As for another common symptom—itchy skin—Dr. Klein says that, in most cases, it is an uncomfortable but normal side effect of pregnancy. "The vast majority of the time it is normal [and] could be due to stretching and hormone changes in pregnancy," Dr. Klein. "Moisturizers can be used to help alleviate symptoms." That said, it should be noted that a very serious condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy can present with generalized itching and notably itching on the soles and palms. This needs to be diagnosed and managed properly to avoid further complications.

Feel like you're touching pins and needles as you type on a computer or text friends? This symptom known as carpal tunnel syndrome can occur due to fluid build-up in the tendons in the wrists, Dr. Klein says.

"The discomfort which comes from pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel syndrome can be alleviated by splints, acupuncture, or steroid injection—if the pain is significant. The vast majority, however, will be relieved after delivery without treatment,” Dr. Klein adds.

Hemorrhoids are likely an unwelcome symptom if you have them, but help is available. "Most over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications can alleviate symptoms while some women need a prescription for a safe but stronger treatment," says Dr. Klein. "Stool softeners should be recommended."

Finally, you may have been focused on cervical fluid while trying to conceive, but now, you may be noticing milky white or clear discharge from your breast. It's simply nature taking its course. "The body is preparing for breastfeeding," says Dr. Klein.

Fun fact: This is why the idea that you're "waiting" for your "milk to come in" is actually a misnomer. Your body begins producing milk before baby is born, and it will ultimately transition from colostrum to transitional to mature milk if you choose to lactate.

Pregnancy Journey Weekly Reminder

Design by Alice Morgan

Developmental Milestones

Dr. Klein says that a baby born at 25 weeks would have an 80% chance of surviving. Of course, if possible, it's best for your little one to stay put and continue to grow on the inside. Dr. Klein says that the lungs continue to mature throughout the third trimester as they get ready for that hallmark first cry on the outside. Your body is also working hard to put the finishing touches on the nervous system, and the baby is continuing to put on fat this week.

Prenatal Tests and Doctor's Appointments

While you probably had an appointment last week—and may have an appointment next week, if your health care provider has increased your cadence to every two weeks (which some do at this stage)—week 25 is usually an "off" week. Most people do not see their doctor during this time. Still, for scheduling reasons, you may have an appointment this week. You may also have more frequent visits if complications like gestational hypertension arise.

Now is a good time to schedule your gestational diabetes screening, if you haven't already. Known as a glucose test, this examination looks for diabetes during pregnancy—a condition which affects up to 10% of pregnant people. Week 25 is also a great time to check in with yourself. Weight check-ins, for example, are often routine, but you can opt-out.

Dr. Klein notes there are a few benefits to weight checks, however. "Excessive weight gain can give an indication of fluid retention and pre-eclampsia, or high blood pressure caused by pregnancy, and can be a valuable guide to the well-being of the pregnancy," says Dr. Klein. "Minimal weight gain could also be a sign that the fetus is not growing, so I recommend that it be done at each visit." Even so, as the expectant parent, you get to weigh the pros and cons—no pun intended—and make a decision which is right for you.

Another thing your doctor, midwife, or health care provider may soon discuss with you is vaccinations—and you should feel comfortable asking questions about them. "Vaccines for whooping cough (TDAP) are usually offered at 27 to 36 weeks to immunize the mother and passive immunization of the baby for protection in the first few months of life," Dr. Klein says. "Flu vaccine and COVID vaccines could be safely administered if indicated."

Common Questions at This Pregnancy Stage

I failed the first round of my gestational diabetes test. I feel like a failure! Did I do something wrong?

Absolutely not, says Monte Swarup, M.D., FACOG, an Arizona-based board-certified OB-GYN and founder of the leading vaginal health information site Vaginal Health Hub. "If you fail your gestational diabetes test, there is nothing to be concerned or ashamed of," says Dr. Swarup. "You did nothing wrong, and you have not failed your baby. The test is to give your OB-GYN provider information to provide the best care for your pregnancy." 


Dr. Klein agrees. "Many patients fail the one-hour screening test and need to do a diagnostic test," Dr. Klein says, adding that this test is three hours and most people pass it. Even if you don't, you didn't fail. Gestational diabetes can be managed with diet, exercise, and sometimes medication, plus extra monitoring. Your health care team will provide important guidance on the next steps either way.


"The overwhelming majority of maternity patients will have a healthy baby and be healthy themselves," Dr. Klein says.


I'm struggling with my weight gain. What should I do?

In an ideal world, all pregnant people would embrace themselves (and their bump) regardless of their shape or size. But weight changes can feel challenging. "If you are having trouble coping with your weight gain, talk with your OB-GYN provider and try to follow their advice," Dr. Swarup says. Your may even want to speak with a therapist who specializes in treating pregnant people. They can help you work through your feelings.


What kind of exercises can I do when I am 25 weeks pregnant?

Exercise can be physically and mentally beneficial to you during your pregnancy. Dr. Swarup recommends walking, yoga, swimming, and light cardio exercise. "Talk to your OB-GYN provider about the specifics of your desired exercise routine," he says.

Things You Might Consider This Week

As you near the third trimester, it's a good time to consider ways to prepare for the true end of your pregnancy: birth. "Preparation for childbirth classes for first-time moms, either web-based or live, should be considered," Dr. Klein says. If you plan to have a support person with you during labor and delivery, such as a partner or co-parent, Dr. Klein recommends having them come. It'll help this person feel more informed and able to support you.

"A tour of the birthing facility may be scheduled, as well as the development of a birthing plan," Dr. Klein says.

You can also get things in place for the fourth trimester, such as preparing the nursery and planning your last day and return to work if applicable.

Support You May Need This Week

You're growing an entire human, but you deserve support, too. If you're struggling mentally, discuss your feelings with your provider. They may have resources to link you up with a local therapist or support group.

You'll also want to think ahead to the support you'll need later, such as who you want to accompany you in labor and delivery, help you get home from the hospital or birth center, and whether you'd like a doula to help you before, during, and/or after birth.

Head over to week 26 of pregnancy

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