Welcome to 25 weeks pregnant! Your baby is growing quickly, and this week brings exciting developments in the lungs and respiratory system. At the same time, you may notice some familiar pregnancy symptoms becoming more noticeable—from swollen ankles to those frustrating moments of “pregnancy brain.”
Baby at 25 Weeks: Learning to Breathe
At around 25 weeks, your baby is approximately 13 inches long and weighs about 1.5 pounds, although normal development varies from pregnancy to pregnancy.
One of the biggest developments this week is happening inside your baby’s lungs. The lungs are becoming more mature as blood vessels continue developing. Your baby’s lungs are also beginning to produce surfactant, a substance that helps the tiny air sacs in the lungs function properly after birth.
Your baby isn’t actually breathing air yet. Instead, the respiratory system is practicing movements while your baby remains surrounded by amniotic fluid. The developing airways and air sacs are preparing for the major transition that will happen when your baby takes those first breaths after delivery.
It’s an amazing reminder that your baby’s body is already preparing for life outside the womb.
Why Are Your Ankles So Swollen?
As pregnancy progresses, you may notice swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, or legs. This swelling, known as edema, can happen because pregnancy changes your circulation and causes your body to retain more fluid.
Mild swelling can be uncomfortable, particularly toward the end of the day. Gentle movement, avoiding prolonged standing, and elevating your feet when resting may help you feel more comfortable.
Staying adequately hydrated is also important during pregnancy. Rather than making major dietary changes on your own, discuss your nutrition and any persistent swelling with your doctor or midwife.
However, sudden or severe swelling, especially when it involves the face or hands or occurs with symptoms such as a severe headache, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain, deserves prompt medical attention because it can sometimes be associated with pregnancy complications.
Is Pregnancy Brain Real?
Have you ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you went there? Or misplaced something that was sitting right in front of you?
Many pregnant women describe these experiences as “pregnancy brain” or “baby brain.” Changes in sleep, stress, hormones, and the many mental demands of preparing for a baby can all contribute to feeling more forgetful or distracted.
Instead of getting frustrated, try practical strategies. Keep appointments and important tasks in a phone calendar, use reminders, make shopping lists, and keep frequently used items in consistent places.
Your Week 25 To-Do List
This week is a great opportunity to start thinking about the kind of parenting environment you want to create. Talk with your partner about routines, values, responsibilities, and the practical changes you expect after your baby’s arrival.
And don’t forget the basics: rest when you can, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and keep up with your prenatal care.
At 25 weeks, you’re getting closer to meeting your baby—but there’s still plenty of development ahead. Take it one week at a time and give yourself permission to enjoy the journey.
