Symptoms and Baby Growth at 5 Months Pregnant

Dr. P. Preethi

Obstetrics & Gynecology · Iswarya Hospital

At 5 months, your baby is growing rapidly and you may be feeling more movement. Here's what to expect in fetal development and common symptoms during the second trimester.

The fifth month of pregnancy (weeks 17–20) marks an exciting milestone — your baby is growing rapidly and you may begin to feel those first flutters of movement.

Fetal Development at 5 Months

By week 20, your baby is approximately 25 cm long and weighs around 300 grams. Key developments include:

Eyebrows, eyelashes, and hair are forming

Fingernails and toenails are growing

The baby can hear sounds and may respond to your voice

Limb movements become more coordinated

A white, waxy substance called vernix caseosa coats the skin

Common Symptoms at 5 Months

*What you may experience:*

Quickening — the first felt baby movements, often described as flutters or bubbles

Round ligament pain — sharp pain on one or both sides of the lower abdomen

Backache — as your centre of gravity shifts

Nasal congestion — due to increased blood volume and hormonal changes

Heartburn and indigestion — as the uterus grows and presses on the stomach

Swollen ankles and feet — normal unless accompanied by headache or visual changes

Increased appetite — your baby needs more nutrition now

Nutrition Tips for the Fifth Month

Focus on:

Calcium-rich foods: milk, yogurt, cheese, ragi

Iron sources: spinach, lentils, lean meat, dates

Protein: eggs, legumes, fish (low mercury)

Healthy snacks: fruits, nuts, and yogurt

Stay well hydrated — aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily

Warning Signs to Watch

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

Heavy bleeding

Severe abdominal pain

Fluid leaking from the vagina

No fetal movement after week 20

Fever above 38°C

Swelling in the face or hands

The mid-pregnancy anomaly scan (typically done around week 20) is an important milestone to confirm the baby's anatomy. Iswarya Hospital's OBG team provides comprehensive antenatal care throughout your pregnancy journey.

Tags:

#pregnancy#5 months pregnant#fetal development#second trimester#gynecology

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