Your baby

Pregnant at 25 weeks, your baby can still turn somersaults but it won’t be long until there’s not enough room in there! They will be able to hear loud noises which may cause them to jump, and you may notice extra kicks when you’re in the bath or shower too.

While your baby is in the womb, their temperature is maintained by the placenta, but by this week they will begin to develop fat which will help regulate their temperature once they are born.

On a 25 weeks pregnant ultrasound, you may notice your little one sucking their thumb, yawning or even rubbing their eyes.

You

You may find it hard to sleep well – try lying on your side with a pillow under your upper leg, to take the weight off your bump.

Are your nails and hair growing quicker than ever before? This is because of the pregnancy hormones circulating around your body. You may find that your skin is more sensitive than usual, so make sure you look after your skin.

Your rapid weight gain may cause you to develop stretch marks around your tummy, hips and thighs. After your pregnancy, these often fade and become less apparent. Moisturising can help smooth the skin, but isn’t likely to stop you from getting them as they are often genetic.

What to think about

If you haven’t already, it’s time to discuss your maternity leave with your employer. Your partner should also discuss paternity leave with his work too.

Have you chosen your birth partner? This doesn’t have to be a partner, it could be your mum, a close friend or you could consider a doula. Find out more about choosing your birth partner.

It’s a really good time to start thinking about what nappies you would like to use? Find out more about nappy options here.

Make sure you begin to plan what newborn essentials you will need. You may not have the energy to go from shop to shop in your third trimester.

Treat yourself to a spa treatment or take time out to relax with a bath accompanied with soothing music and candles. After your baby is born you’ll be concentrating on baby care so use this time wisely and make some time for you!