Day 122 of 280, second trimester
You are 17 weeks and 3 days
It's normal and healthy to gain more weight in the second trimester than in the early months.
158 days until your due date
You may have gained little weight in the first trimester, but from the second trimester onward you'll gain weight every week. On average, women should gain 3–4 pounds a month from the second trimester to the end of pregnancy, although it tends to slow down in the last few weeks.
How much you should gain depends on many factors, especially your starting BMI.
The baby makes up only a small part of the weight you gain. The rest is your growing uterus, amniotic fluid, breasts, extra blood, and fat.
If you're worried about your weight, talk to your doctor. You may not be weighed routinely at checkups, but your doctor will weigh you if she's concerned about how much you're gaining.
Ask a Doctor
I keep having hot flashes. Is that normal?
Many women get hot flashes in pregnancy because higher estrogen levels widen the blood vessels, filling them with blood and heat. Your metabolism also speeds up, producing extra heat, not to mention the little heater growing inside you.
Wear layers you can take off quickly, and avoid spicy food, alcohol, and caffeine, which can all bring on hot flashes. Exercise can help by improving circulation, and yoga and other relaxation exercises can help you stay cool and calm.
Good to know
Weight gain
Your target weight gain for the second trimester (and the third) is 9–16 pounds each, much more than the recommended 2–4 pounds for the first. If sickness meant you didn't gain much in the first trimester, now is a good time to eat more to make up some of the difference. If you gained too much, focus on staying active and filling your plate with lower-calorie, nutrient-rich fruit and vegetables.
Keep your overall target in mind: 25–35 pounds if your BMI was normal (20–25), 15–25 pounds if you were overweight, at least 15 pounds if you were obese, 28–40 pounds if you were underweight, and about 35–45 pounds if you're expecting twins.
Read the full 17 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.