It’s hard to believe that I’m getting close to halfway through this pregnancy. They say that each pregnancy goes by faster and faster, and I’m finding that to be the truth! Things are crazy taking care of two other little ones at home.
I’m excited to share my 17 week bumpdate! I try to be completely honest and upfront in these posts to help other expecting mommas know they are NOT alone. Feel free to reach out to me via comment or e-mail with any questions!
How far along?
17 weeks as of Saturday, June 20, 2020
Size of Baby
Baby is about 5 inches long and weighs roughly 5.9 oz.
Fun size comparisons include a pomegranate, your palm and a cassette tape!
Weight Gain
Currently up about 9-10 lbs depending on the day. Definitely more than I had gained with Chloe and Brody at this point. Such is life! This active momma is hungry, so I’m just trying to make healthy choices while also caving to my cravings sometimes. Speaking of cravings…
Cravings
I’m currently loving smoothies, cereal, Cheez Its, salads, my easy to make protein balls, bread, cherries, sparkling water.
Symptoms
Sciatica Pain: I’m not please to report that I’m already dealing with some back issues. The Sciatica pain is not constant which is nice, but it likes to rear its ugly head when I’m trying to relax or get something done. I’m trying to be mindful and stretch as often as I can.
Low Back Pain: It’s not fun at all. I was surprised that it was already starting this early in my pregnancy, but it is my third afterall. It’s the worst in the evenings, particularly on the days that I’m even more active!
Increased Energy: A good symptom! My energy has returned and I’m pleased to report that I’m getting things done again.
Increased Discharge: It’s just a part of pregnancy and I want everyone to know it’s normal!
Interrupted Sleep: Sleep is hit or miss. Scroll down for more details, but if you’re also pregnant, know that it’s normal and you aren’t alone!
Mood
I’m doing much better than the emotional roller coaster I was on the past few months. Finding out I was pregnant at the beginning of a pandemic made my already hormonal state much more fragile. I projected my fears and anxiety on different things which was very overwhelming.
Luckily now that I’m out of the first trimester, I’m doing better. Let’s be real, I’m still a little crazy and emotional, but that’s just who I am. I was able to talk to my doctor about the anxiety and she suggested yoga and meditation. I’ve started doing yoga again a few times a week, which I really needed to do as a runner anyway, and I’m starting the meditation app Expectful. I found out about it through the podcast I listen to called The Birth Hour. If you want, you can get a 14 day free trial here. It’s for couples TTC, pregnant mothers, expecting fathers and parents!
Movement
I feel little bitty flutters every now and then. I have to be still to notice them which rarely happens!
Sleep
It’s hit or miss. I spoke with my doctor and I’m taking melatonin at night now. I was under the impression that it wasn’t safe for pregnancy, but I was wrong! Melatonin definitely helps me fall asleep, but if I’m woken up at 3, 4 or 5 in the morning, I struggle to go back to sleep.
I’m also taking half a Unisom a night or two a week if I woke up and struggled to go back to sleep the night before. It’s a grade A drug that she said was safe and to take as needed.
Workouts
Still going strong! I’m pleased to report that I also went back to my gym for the first time this month! It felt so great to be able to workout with more equipment and just be in the zone.
With the heat of the summer, my runs have become more sparse and my walks have become longer. Instead of going out for a 3 mile run, I’ll meet up with a friend and walk 4-5 miles. I’m still getting a few runs in and enjoying them when I do. I’m just mindful of how I feel and when I go out with our heat and humidity.
I recorded a prenatal/postpartum friendly workout last week on my Instagram that I’d love for y’all to watch! It focuses on hips, glutes and obliques. It’s a killer workout and good for everyone to do. It just happens to be safe for all my pregnant and new mommas out there!
What I Miss
Uncooked sushi and wine! There have also been a few days when I really wanted a margarita. What can I say, it’s summer in Texas and this momma misses the occasional drink. I also miss sleeping well through the night, but that won’t be happening again for a few years now I suppose! Brody spoiled me by sleeping through the night at 8 weeks.
Favorite Pregnancy Gear
Snoogle: This pregnancy pillow is a life changer! I started using it at about 12 weeks this pregnancy and haven’t looked back. I’m also please to report that I’ve used the same pillow for all 3 pregnancies, storing it safely in between. I’ve gotten my money’s worth and more!
Under the bump panties: These are just $10 for 3 pairs and the fit so nicely under my bump providing full coverage in the back! The don’t roll under my belly which will be super important once this bump gets even bigger!
Loose tank tops: There are obviously tons of options out there, but here are a few that I’ve recently purchased and I love!
- Joy Lab Tank from Target: I have mine in a small and there is still room to grow! Super lightweight and flowy.
- Next Level Tank Top: These next level tank tops come in 20+ colors! I suggest sizing up. I wear a medium and it stretches nicely as your belly grows.
- Maternity & Nursing Top: This tank will grow with your belly, then when baby arrives, it’s also a nursing top for just $20!
- Preggosarus: Then there are fun tanks like this one! I’m obsessed with dinosaurs, so I had to share!
Heating pad: I love this microwaveable heating pad for my lower back pain mentioned above. You just heat it up in the microwave and let it do it’s magic! I use it a few evenings a week and it really helps soothe the aches and pains.
Looking Forward To
Being at the beach in Florida this week with my baby boy, bestie and her daughter! I’ll definitely be paying attention to my do’s and don’ts of traveling while pregnant! And of course being extra safe since the coronavirus is still present!
My 20 week ultrasound in just a few weeks! I’m hoping that they’ll change the rules and allow JP to come with me. As of right now, it’s the expecting mother only, no partners which is a bummer.
Thanks for reading all about my 17th week of pregnancy. I love sharing my journey and I appreciate y’all following it. I’ll be back with a 20 week update after my big ultrasound and let y’all know how it goes!
If you’re interested, you can follow my weekly bumpdates on Instagram!
What are some of your memories from the early second trimester?
For each of my babies, this is the time that I finally started getting my energy back. I also stopped feeling nauseous with my first around 17-18 weeks!
You are such an awesome role model! I really wish I had known you before I was pregnant. Haha. You would have been such a motivation for me to stay fit and active even during the pregnancy. It’s really a joy to watch your pregnancy journey. Thanks for sharing all these awesome tips!