25 weeks pregnant
25 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby’s Development
Brain gain. The brain's cortex is developing into elaborate layers. Most of the action is still controlled by other brain areas that developed much earlier.
25 Weeks Pregnant: Your Symptoms
Having a ball. Your uterus is now about the size of a football, so it’s natural that your organs are feeling squashed. 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 signs of gestational diabetes, a high blood sugar condition affecting two to five per cent of pregnant women that usually goes away after birth. The test itself is simple: a few minutes after drinking a sugary solution, your blood is taken 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.
Going on trips. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common during pregnancy, so make sure to visit the loo’ whenever you feel the need. A symptom of UTI is burning, pain or an unpleasant smell when you urinate. If you have these symptoms, call your doctor right away, as UTIs can become serious if left untreated during pregnancy.
Did you know? Blood vessels are developing in the lungs and the nostrils are opening, all preparing for baby’s first breath. Blood vessels are also developing under the skin, giving the baby a pink appearance.
25 Weeks Pregnant: Your Checklist
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
Plan your maternity leave
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