25 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Twenty-five weeks pregnant and your baby's startle reflex is fully developed — a loud sudden noise will make them jump. Baby is becoming increasingly responsive to the world outside the womb.
Baby at Week 25: Size of a rutabaga
Baby's Development at 25 Weeks
The startle (Moro) reflex is now complete. Baby is becoming increasingly aware of sounds, light, and possibly touch from outside the womb. The capillaries are filling with blood, giving the skin a pinkish hue. The lungs continue to develop, and breathing practice movements are frequent. The spinal cord is maturing. Baby's cycle of sleep and wakefulness is becoming more pronounced.
Your Body at 25 Weeks Pregnant
Heartburn typically peaks in the third trimester but is well established by week 25. Haemorrhoids can develop from increased pelvic pressure and constipation — increased water and fibre intake helps prevent them. The feet and ankles may swell noticeably by evening. Sleep continues to be challenging. Some people experience symphysis pubis dysfunction (pelvic pain when walking, climbing stairs, or turning in bed).
Tips for Week 25
- Elevate your feet for 20 minutes during the day to reduce oedema.
- For haemorrhoids: increase fibre, stay hydrated, and avoid straining — ask your pharmacist about safe topical treatments.
- Consider a birth photography consultation if this interests you — good photographers book up months in advance.
- Register for your antenatal classes if you haven't already.
Try it free →
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I write my birth plan?
Any time from now is ideal. A birth plan is a document outlining your preferences for labour, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period — things like pain management, who you want present, skin-to-skin, cord clamping, feeding plans, and more. Most providers recommend having a draft ready by week 32–34. It's a starting point for conversation with your care team, not a rigid script.
Is it safe to fly at 25 weeks pregnant?
Most airlines allow travel up to week 36 for single pregnancies (often earlier for multiples), but policies vary. At 25 weeks, flying is generally considered safe for healthy pregnancies. Wear compression stockings, stay hydrated, and walk the aisle regularly to reduce DVT risk. Always carry your maternity notes and ensure your travel insurance covers pregnancy.
Tackle the registry together
Hello, baby's gear checklist is built for couples to work through side by side — tick things off as you go.
Start for free →