Pregnancy week 25 is a distinctive stage of the second trimester. The fetus is becoming stronger, more responsive to sound and increasingly active, while lung, nervous-system and fat development continue rapidly.

This week also brings some interesting changes that are easier to notice from the outside. A loud sound may cause a sudden kick or startle movement, fetal hiccups may occasionally be felt, and the fetus is now producing urine that contributes substantially to the amniotic fluid surrounding it.

For the pregnant person, swelling, heartburn, bloating, backache and sleep problems may become more noticeable. Week 25 also falls within the usual 24–28 week gestational-diabetes screening window, making prenatal testing an important part of this stage.

Quick answer: At 25 weeks pregnant, the fetus is around 34.6 cm from head to heel, approximately the size of a courgette according to NHS guidance. Movement is stronger, loud sounds may trigger a startle response, fetal hiccups can occur, the lungs are beginning to produce surfactant, and the nervous system continues maturing.

What Does 25 Weeks Pregnant Mean?

Pregnancy is normally dated from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP).

At 25 weeks pregnant, conception usually occurred around 23 weeks earlier in a typical cycle.

You remain in the second trimester.

ACOG defines the second trimester as lasting from 14 weeks 0 days through 27 weeks 6 days, with the third trimester beginning at week 28.

Week 25 therefore marks the beginning of the final few weeks of the second trimester.

How Big Is the Baby at 25 Weeks?

The NHS estimates the fetus at around 34.6 cm from head to heel.

That is approximately the size of a courgette.

Exact fetal size varies according to:

• genetics;
• exact gestational age;
• fetal sex;
• natural growth variation;
• measurement technique.

A single size estimate should never be used by itself to judge whether fetal growth is normal.

What Is Developing at 25 Weeks?

ACOG groups weeks 25–28 together as an important developmental phase.

During this stage:

• the lungs are fully formed structurally but not ready to function outside the uterus;
• loud sounds may trigger a startled movement;
• the eyelids can open and close;
• the lungs begin producing surfactant;
• the nervous system continues developing;
• the skin becomes smoother as more fat accumulates.

MedlinePlus also describes weeks 23–25 as a period when:

• bone marrow makes blood cells;
• lower lung airways develop;
• fetal fat storage increases.

What Is Happening to the Lungs at 25 Weeks?

Lung development is a major feature of this stage.

ACOG states that during weeks 25–28 the lungs are structurally formed but remain too immature to function normally outside the uterus.

The lungs also begin producing surfactant.

What Is Surfactant?

Surfactant is a substance that helps the tiny air sacs inside the lungs remain open after birth.

Without enough surfactant, the lungs have difficulty staying expanded between breaths.

At week 25, surfactant production is only beginning.

The amount increases later in pregnancy.

Does Surfactant Mean the Baby Could Breathe Normally?

No.

Beginning surfactant production does not mean lung development is complete.

At 25 weeks, the respiratory system still needs substantial maturation.

Before birth, the fetus receives oxygen through the placenta rather than breathing air.

Does the Baby Practice Breathing?

Yes.

Breathing-like movements continue.

These movements help develop:

• chest muscles;
• diaphragm movement;
• lung structures.

However, the fetus is not inhaling air.

Gas exchange still occurs through the placenta.

Are the Lower Airways Still Developing?

Yes.

MedlinePlus describes weeks 23–25 as the stage when the lower airways of the lungs develop.

These branching airways will eventually transport air toward the deeper gas-exchange regions of the lungs after birth.

Is the Nervous System Developing at 25 Weeks?

Yes.

ACOG lists continued nervous-system development as one of the major features of weeks 25–28.

This supports increasing coordination of:

• movement;
• reflexes;
• responses to sound;
• sleep patterns.

The brain and nervous system still have extensive development ahead.

Can Loud Sounds Make the Baby Jump?

Yes.

The NHS notes that a loud noise may make the fetus jump and kick at week 25.

ACOG similarly states that loud sounds during weeks 25–28 may produce a startled response in which the fetus pulls in the arms and legs.

This reflects developing hearing and nervous-system reflexes.

Does That Mean the Baby Can Hear Well?

Hearing has been developing for several weeks and is becoming increasingly functional.

The fetus can be exposed to sounds such as:

• your heartbeat;
• blood flow;
• digestive noises;
• your voice;
• external sounds.

However, hearing is still maturing.

Can the Baby Recognize Your Voice?

ACOG notes that during weeks 25–28 the fetus can respond with movement to familiar sounds such as the pregnant person’s voice.

That does not mean language comprehension.

It reflects increasing auditory and neurological responsiveness.

Should You Play Loud Music to the Baby?

No special sound stimulation is required.

Talking, singing and normal household sound are sufficient.

Avoid deliberately placing very loud speakers or headphones directly against the abdomen.

Can the Baby Have Hiccups at 25 Weeks?

Yes.

The NHS notes that you may begin feeling the occasional fetal hiccup around this stage.

Fetal hiccups may feel like:

• small rhythmic taps;
• repeated gentle jerks;
• regular pulsing sensations.

They are different from the irregular pattern of ordinary kicks.

Why Does the Baby Hiccup?

Fetal hiccups are thought to involve contractions of the developing diaphragm.

They occur as the nervous system and respiratory muscles develop.

They are generally considered part of normal fetal activity.

What Do Fetal Hiccups Feel Like?

You may notice a series of small, rhythmic movements in one area of the abdomen.

Unlike ordinary kicks, hiccups tend to have a regular rhythm.

Some people notice them frequently, while others barely notice them at all.

Is the Baby Moving More at 25 Weeks?

Yes.

Movement is becoming stronger as:

• muscles develop;
• bones strengthen;
• nervous-system control improves;
• fetal size increases.

You may feel:

• kicks;
• turns;
• rolls;
• stretching;
• pushes;
• hiccups.

Should You Feel Movement Every Day?

Many people notice movement daily by this stage.

However, there is no universal number of movements that every fetus must make at week 25.

Placental position, fetal position and maternal activity can all affect what you notice.

The important goal is gradually learning what is normal for your own pregnancy.

Should You Count Kicks at 25 Weeks?

Formal kick-counting practices vary.

Some maternity services emphasize awareness of the baby’s individual movement pattern rather than reaching a fixed number.

At 25 weeks, movement may still be developing into a more predictable routine.

Follow the guidance provided by your own maternity healthcare team.

What If Movement Suddenly Decreases?

If you notice a significant reduction from your baby’s usual activity, contact your maternity service.

Do not rely on:

• a home Doppler;
• sugary foods;
• cold drinks;
• loud music;

as substitutes for medical assessment.

Is the Baby Producing Urine at 25 Weeks?

Yes.

The NHS notes that the fetus is urinating into the amniotic fluid by week 25.

Fetal urine contributes substantially to amniotic fluid during the second half of pregnancy.

Is Amniotic Fluid Mostly Baby Urine?

The NHS notes that by this stage much of the fluid surrounding the fetus is urine.

This is a normal fetal process.

The fluid is continuously:

• swallowed;
• absorbed;
• produced;
• recycled.

Why Is Amniotic Fluid Important?

Amniotic fluid helps:

• cushion the fetus;
• allow movement;
• protect the umbilical cord;
• maintain a stable environment;
• support lung development.

An abnormal amount of fluid may sometimes be detected on ultrasound and interpreted by healthcare professionals.

Does the Baby Swallow Amniotic Fluid Too?

Yes.

Swallowing develops earlier in pregnancy and continues.

This helps support development of:

• digestive function;
• swallowing coordination;
• fluid regulation.

Is the Digestive System Working?

Yes.

The digestive system has been functioning for several weeks.

The fetus swallows amniotic fluid and continues accumulating meconium within the intestinal tract.

Nutrition itself still comes through the placenta.

Is Bone Marrow Producing Blood Cells?

Yes.

MedlinePlus states that bone marrow begins producing blood cells during weeks 23–25.

This represents an important shift in fetal blood production.

Is the Baby Gaining More Fat?

Yes.

MedlinePlus notes that fat storage increases during weeks 23–25.

ACOG also explains that during weeks 25–28 the skin begins looking smoother as more fat is added.

The fetus is still much leaner than a full-term newborn.

Why Is Fetal Fat Important?

Fat helps with:

• energy storage;
• temperature regulation after birth;
• smoother skin;
• overall growth.

A large proportion of fetal weight gain still occurs later in pregnancy.

Is the Skin Becoming Smoother?

Yes.

ACOG notes that increasing fat beneath the skin makes the fetus appear smoother during weeks 25–28.

Earlier second-trimester skin looked thinner and more wrinkled.

This gradually changes as fat stores increase.

Can the Baby Open Its Eyes at 25 Weeks?

ACOG places eyelid opening and closing within the weeks 25–28 developmental period.

This does not mean mature eyesight is present.

Visual pathways and the brain continue developing for months.

Can the Baby See Light?

Visual function is still immature.

Responses to changes in light become more relevant later as eyelids open and retinal pathways develop further.

Do not use bright lights against the abdomen for stimulation.

What Is Happening to the Placenta?

The placenta continues functioning as the fetal support system.

It helps:

• deliver oxygen;
• transfer nutrients;
• remove waste;
• produce hormones.

Placental function remains essential throughout the remainder of pregnancy.

What Is Happening in Your Body at 25 Weeks?

The uterus is larger, and fluid retention may become more noticeable.

The NHS notes that some pregnant people develop swelling or puffiness around the:

• face;
• hands;
• feet.

Often this is harmless pregnancy-related fluid retention.

However, swelling can occasionally be associated with medical complications, so context matters.

Is Swelling Normal at 25 Weeks?

Mild gradual swelling can be common.

Pregnancy causes changes in:

• blood volume;
• circulation;
• fluid balance.

However, NHS guidance specifically recommends mentioning swelling to your doctor or midwife because blood pressure may need checking.

Why Is Sudden Swelling Important?

Sudden or significant swelling can sometimes occur with pre-eclampsia.

The NHS states that pre-eclampsia can develop during the second half of pregnancy or after birth.

Swelling alone does not diagnose it.

What Is Pre-Eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure and signs that other organ systems may be affected.

It requires professional medical assessment.

You cannot diagnose or exclude pre-eclampsia based only on how swollen you look.

What Warning Signs Should You Know?

The NHS advises seeking medical help for concerning symptoms including:

• severe or “splitting” headache;
• vision problems;
• pain just below the ribs.

Other symptoms should be interpreted by your maternity healthcare team.

Why Is Blood Pressure Checked During Pregnancy?

Blood-pressure monitoring helps identify pregnancy-related hypertension and complications such as pre-eclampsia.

Your clinician interprets readings together with:

• urine results;
• symptoms;
• medical history;
• gestational age.

One isolated reading should not be self-diagnosed online.

What Symptoms Are Common at 25 Weeks?

Possible symptoms include:

• tiredness;
• sleep difficulties;
• stretch marks;
• swollen or bleeding gums;
• round-ligament pain;
• hemorrhoids;
• headaches;
• backache;
• nosebleeds;
• indigestion;
• heartburn;
• bloating;
• constipation;
• leg cramps;
• feeling hot;
• dizziness;
• swelling of the hands and feet;
• urinary infections;
• vaginal infections;
• skin pigmentation changes;
• oily skin;
• thicker hair.

Not everyone experiences all of these.

Why Is Heartburn More Common at 25 Weeks?

The NHS notes that the growing pregnancy takes up more abdominal space, making indigestion and heartburn increasingly common.

Pregnancy hormones can also relax muscles involved in keeping stomach contents from refluxing upward.

What Does Pregnancy Indigestion Feel Like?

The NHS lists possible symptoms such as:

• burning in the chest;
• bloating;
• nausea;
• feeling unusually full after eating.

Burping may also become more frequent.

What Can Help Heartburn and Indigestion?

NHS guidance suggests measures including:

• eating smaller meals;
• avoiding very rich, spicy or fatty foods if they trigger symptoms;
• reducing caffeine;
• sitting upright while eating.

If symptoms remain troublesome, ask a doctor or pharmacist about pregnancy-safe treatment.

Is Constipation Normal?

Yes.

Pregnancy hormones can slow bowel movement.

Iron supplements may also contribute.

General strategies include:

• drinking adequate fluids;
• eating fiber-rich foods;
• staying physically active.

Do not stop prescribed iron without speaking with your healthcare provider.

Are Hemorrhoids Common?

Yes.

Pregnancy-related pelvic pressure and constipation can contribute to hemorrhoids.

Symptoms may include:

• itching;
• discomfort;
• pain during bowel movements;
• small amounts of bleeding.

Significant or unexplained bleeding should be assessed.

Is Backache Normal?

Yes.

A growing uterus changes your posture and center of gravity.

Pregnancy hormones also affect ligaments.

Helpful measures can include:

• supportive footwear;
• careful lifting;
• regular gentle activity;
• good posture.

Severe or persistent back pain requires assessment.

Is Round Ligament Pain Still Possible?

Yes.

Stretching ligaments can cause:

• brief sharp side pain;
• pulling;
• groin discomfort.

Severe, persistent or worsening abdominal pain should not simply be assumed to be ligament pain.

Are Leg Cramps Normal?

Yes.

Leg cramps can occur during pregnancy, especially at night.

Gentle stretching may help.

Urgent medical assessment is needed if one leg becomes unusually:

• swollen;
• red;
• warm;
• persistently painful.

Is Dizziness Normal?

Mild dizziness can occur.

Possible contributors include:

• circulation changes;
• dehydration;
• overheating;
• standing quickly;
• inadequate food intake.

Seek assessment for fainting or severe persistent dizziness.

Is Vaginal Discharge Normal?

White or milky discharge can be normal.

Seek medical advice if discharge becomes:

• green or yellow;
• strongly unpleasant smelling;
• itchy;
• painful;
• associated with fever.

A sudden gush or persistent watery leakage needs prompt assessment.

What About Bleeding?

Any pregnancy bleeding deserves medical advice.

Urgent assessment is especially important when bleeding is:

• heavy;
• accompanied by severe pain;
• associated with contractions;
• accompanied by fainting;
• associated with fluid leakage.

Can Braxton Hicks Happen at 25 Weeks?

Occasional irregular tightening may occur during the second trimester.

These are often called Braxton Hicks contractions.

They generally:

• remain irregular;
• do not become progressively stronger;
• settle.

Regular, painful or increasing contractions at 25 weeks require medical assessment because preterm labor must be considered.

Is Gestational Diabetes Screening Still Due?

Yes.

Week 25 lies directly inside the usual 24–28 week glucose-screening window.

ACOG states that routine glucose screening is generally performed during this period.

What Is the Glucose Screening Test?

ACOG describes the common screening test as follows:

• you drink a special glucose mixture;
• approximately one hour later, blood is taken;
• the blood glucose level is measured.

A high result may lead to a second glucose test.

Does a High Screening Result Mean Gestational Diabetes?

No.

The first test is a screening test.

If glucose is elevated, additional testing is commonly needed to confirm whether gestational diabetes is present.

Why Is Gestational Diabetes Screening Important?

Gestational diabetes may not cause obvious symptoms.

Screening identifies people whose blood glucose needs further evaluation.

Once diagnosed, management can reduce pregnancy-related risks.

Can You Skip the Test if You Feel Healthy?

Feeling healthy does not rule out gestational diabetes.

Discuss testing with your prenatal provider rather than using symptoms to decide whether screening is necessary.

Should You Change Your Diet Before the Test?

Follow the instructions given by your healthcare service.

Do not drastically change your diet or attempt to influence the result.

The goal is an accurate assessment.

What About Anemia Testing?

Pregnancy increases iron requirements and expands maternal blood volume.

Depending on your healthcare system, another blood count may be performed later in pregnancy to check for anemia.

Symptoms can include:

• tiredness;
• weakness;
• dizziness;
• breathlessness.

However, these symptoms overlap with normal pregnancy, so blood testing is needed for diagnosis.

Should You Automatically Take More Iron?

Not necessarily.

Some prenatal vitamins already contain iron.

Extra iron should be based on:

• diet;
• blood results;
• medical history;
• clinical advice.

High doses can worsen constipation.

Is Whooping Cough Vaccination Still Relevant?

Yes, depending on your country.

The NHS states that whooping cough vaccination can be given from 16 to 32 weeks and is often offered around week 20.

Follow the vaccination schedule recommended by your own healthcare system.

Can You Exercise at 25 Weeks?

Many people with uncomplicated pregnancies can remain active.

The NHS recommends around 150 minutes of physical activity per week during pregnancy.

Suitable activities may include:

• walking;
• swimming;
• prenatal exercise;
• appropriate strength work.

Listen to your body and modify activities as your balance changes.

Are Pelvic Floor Exercises Important?

Yes.

The NHS specifically encourages pelvic-floor exercises around this stage.

The pelvic floor supports the:

• bladder;
• uterus;
• bowel.

Strengthening it may help reduce urine leakage with:

• coughing;
• sneezing;
• laughing.

Should You Practice Stopping Urine Midstream?

The pelvic-floor muscles are similar to the muscles used to stop urine flow, but repeatedly interrupting urination is not a recommended regular exercise technique.

Once you identify the muscles, perform exercises separately.

A pelvic-health physiotherapist can help if needed.

Do You Need Extra Calories at 25 Weeks?

Under NHS guidance, no extra calories are needed until the third trimester begins at week 28.

You do not need to “eat for two.”

Focus instead on:

• vegetables;
• fruit;
• whole grains;
• protein;
• iron;
• calcium;
• healthy fats;
• adequate fluids.

Is Vitamin D Important?

Yes.

Vitamin D supports bone and muscle health.

NHS guidance advises a daily 10 microgram supplement for some pregnant people depending on season and individual circumstances.

Recommendations vary internationally, so follow local guidance.

Should You Avoid Alcohol and Smoking?

Yes.

The NHS advises avoiding alcohol and stopping smoking during pregnancy.

If stopping smoking is difficult, ask your healthcare provider about evidence-based cessation support.

What About Caffeine?

The NHS advises limiting caffeine-containing drinks such as:

• tea;
• coffee;
• energy drinks.

Caffeine can also be present in:

• cola;
• chocolate;
• some medicines.

Follow pregnancy-specific recommendations for your country.

Should You Start a Birth Plan?

Week 25 is a reasonable time to think more seriously about birth preferences.

The NHS suggests considering issues such as:

• preferred pain relief;
• who you want present;
• preferences around labor and delivery.

A birth plan describes preferences rather than guarantees.

Medical circumstances can change.

Should You Join Antenatal Classes?

Yes, this is a useful time to arrange them if you have not already.

The NHS recommends asking your doctor or midwife about antenatal classes.

Classes may cover:

• labor;
• birth;
• pain relief;
• newborn care;
• breastfeeding;
• partner support.

Should You Tell Your Employer About the Pregnancy?

Employment rules vary by country.

The NHS notes that under UK rules, week 25 is around the latest point by which many employees need to notify their employer to qualify for certain maternity rights and benefits.

This UK-specific rule does not apply universally.

Check employment law in your own country.

Why Might a Workplace Risk Assessment Matter?

Pregnancy may require adjustments if your work involves:

• heavy lifting;
• chemicals;
• radiation;
• infection exposure;
• extreme heat;
• long periods of standing.

Discuss occupational risks with both your healthcare provider and workplace safety service.

What About Mental Wellbeing?

Emotional health remains part of prenatal care.

The NHS encourages talking to a doctor or midwife if you feel:

• persistently anxious;
• low;
• overwhelmed.

Support may be available through:

• healthcare services;
• family;
• friends;
• local groups.

Is It Too Early to Think About Postpartum Contraception?

No.

The NHS suggests pregnancy as a useful time to begin discussing contraception after birth.

You do not need to make a final decision now.

It simply gives you time to understand available options.

Can You Travel at 25 Weeks?

Many uncomplicated pregnancies can still travel.

Before significant travel, consider:

• maternity healthcare access;
• travel insurance;
• airline rules;
• infection risks;
• long periods of sitting;
• food and water safety.

Discuss travel with your healthcare professional if your pregnancy is high risk.

Is Sex Safe at 25 Weeks?

For most uncomplicated pregnancies, sexual activity remains possible.

Seek individualized advice if you have:

• vaginal bleeding;
• leaking fluid;
• placenta-related complications;
• cervical problems;
• regular contractions;
• medical instructions to avoid intercourse.

When Should You Seek Medical Help at 25 Weeks?

Seek professional medical advice whenever symptoms concern you.

Urgent assessment may be needed for:

• heavy vaginal bleeding;
• regular painful contractions;
• continuing or sudden fluid leakage;
• severe abdominal or pelvic pain;
• severe headache;
• vision changes;
• significant pain under the ribs;
• sudden marked swelling;
• fainting;
• severe or sudden shortness of breath;
• chest pain;
• high fever;
• severe one-sided leg swelling or pain;
• a concerning decrease in fetal movement compared with your baby’s usual pattern.

At 25 weeks, symptoms suggesting preterm labor or pre-eclampsia require prompt professional assessment.

Pregnancy Week 25 FAQs

How big is the baby at 25 weeks?

The NHS estimates the fetus at around 34.6 cm from head to heel, approximately the size of a courgette.

What is developing at 25 weeks?

The nervous system continues developing, the lungs begin producing surfactant, fat storage increases, and responses to sound become stronger.

Can the baby hear at 25 weeks?

Yes. Hearing is well underway, and ACOG notes that the fetus can respond with movement to familiar sounds during weeks 25–28.

Can loud sounds make the baby jump?

Yes. Both NHS and ACOG describe a fetal startle response to loud sound around this stage.

Can the baby have hiccups at 25 weeks?

Yes. The NHS notes that fetal hiccups may be noticeable around week 25.

What do fetal hiccups feel like?

They usually feel like repeated small rhythmic movements or taps in one area of the abdomen.

Is the baby urinating at 25 weeks?

Yes. The fetus urinates into the amniotic fluid, and fetal urine makes up much of the fluid surrounding the fetus at this stage.

Are the lungs mature at 25 weeks?

No. They are developing and beginning to produce surfactant but are not yet ready for normal independent function.

Can the baby open its eyes?

ACOG places eyelid opening and closing within the weeks 25–28 developmental period.

Should you count kicks at 25 weeks?

Formal counting practices vary. The more important goal is becoming familiar with your baby’s normal movement pattern and reporting concerning reductions.

Is swelling normal at 25 weeks?

Mild gradual swelling can occur, but sudden or significant swelling should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

What are warning signs of pre-eclampsia?

NHS guidance highlights severe headache, vision problems and pain below the ribs as symptoms requiring prompt medical attention, particularly when swelling is present.

Is the glucose test done at 25 weeks?

Yes. Week 25 falls inside ACOG’s usual 24–28 week gestational-diabetes screening window.

Does an abnormal glucose screening result mean you have gestational diabetes?

Not necessarily. A high screening result generally requires further testing before diagnosis.

Is week 25 still in the second trimester?

Yes. ACOG defines the second trimester as lasting through 27 weeks 6 days.

What Comes Next?

During Pregnancy Week 26, fetal facial and eye development becomes especially interesting. MedlinePlus notes that by week 26:

• eyebrows and eyelashes are well formed;
• all parts of the eyes have developed;
• loud sounds can produce a startle response;
• fingerprints and footprints are forming;
• air sacs form in the lungs, although the lungs remain too immature for normal function outside the uterus.

You will also remain inside the important 24–28 week gestational-diabetes screening window.

Previous: Pregnancy Week 24
Next: Pregnancy Week 26
Tool: Pregnancy Due Date Calculator

Medical References

This article is based on current educational information from established medical and public-health organizations, including:

• NHS — 25 Weeks Pregnant
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
• ACOG — Changes During Pregnancy
• ACOG — Routine Tests During Pregnancy
• MedlinePlus — Fetal Development

Editorial & Medical Information

Last content review: October 2026

This page provides general educational pregnancy information only. It does not diagnose pregnancy complications, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes or preterm labor; assess fetal wellbeing; prescribe medication; or replace personalized prenatal care.

Fetal movement, symptoms, blood pressure, glucose results and pregnancy needs vary between individuals. Contact a qualified healthcare professional for personal concerns about swelling, headaches, vision changes, pain below the ribs, bleeding, contractions, fluid leakage or reduced fetal movement.

Conclusion

Pregnancy week 25 marks the beginning of another important developmental phase. The NHS estimates the fetus at around 34.6 cm from head to heel and notes that strong sounds may trigger a jump or kick, fetal hiccups may become noticeable, and fetal urine now contributes substantially to the amniotic fluid.

Internally, development is accelerating. ACOG describes weeks 25–28 as a period when the lungs begin producing surfactant, the nervous system continues developing, the eyelids can open and close, and additional fat helps make the skin smoother.

For the pregnant person, week 25 can bring more heartburn, fullness, backache, swelling and sleep difficulty. Swelling is often harmless, but sudden or significant swelling—especially when accompanied by severe headache, visual changes or pain below the ribs—requires medical assessment because these can be warning signs of pre-eclampsia.

Week 25 also sits directly inside the 24–28 week gestational-diabetes screening window, making this an important time to complete any glucose testing recommended by your prenatal healthcare provider.

Continue routine prenatal care, balanced nutrition, appropriate physical activity and awareness of your baby’s developing movement pattern. Heavy bleeding, regular painful contractions, significant fluid leakage, severe symptoms or a meaningful reduction in fetal movement should be assessed medically rather than self-diagnosed online.