25-Week Midwife Appointment: What To Expect & Questions To Ask

As you reach the 25-week mark, it's time for another essential milestone if it's your first baby: your midwife appointment.

In this blog, we'll explore what's happening in your body, common third-trimester symptoms, the development of your baby, birth preparation tips, and what to expect during your 25-week midwife appointment.

Plus, we'll provide you with some helpful questions to ask your midwife. Let's dive in!

What's Happening in My Body at Week 25?

At 25 weeks pregnant, you can expect your increasingly large pregnant belly to feel tight and itchy, and your body to feel, well, stretched a little thin.

Whilst your 25-week baby bump might look adorable to everyone else, you might feel less than enthusiastic. There's a lot to get used to, so don't expect yourself to feel optimistic about it 24/7.

3rd Trimester Pregnancy Symptoms (at 25 Weeks)

Heartburn and Indigestion

You might be dealing with indigestion and heartburn, which can be bothersome. To manage these symptoms, try eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding certain foods and drinks that can trigger them.

If indigestion and heartburn persist and cause significant distress, it's a good idea to consult your doctor. In some cases, they could indicate a more severe condition like pre-eclampsia.

You could start getting puffy and swollen in your face, hands and feet. While this is probably harmless and caused by water retention, mention it to your midwife or doctor. They will want to check your blood pressure.

Pre-eclampsia can happen in the 2nd half of pregnancy or after the baby is born.

If you get any other signs, such as splitting headaches, vision problems, or pain just below the ribs, call your doctor, midwife or NHS 111 (if in the UK).

Leg Cramps

Another common issue that may arise is leg cramps, particularly when you're in bed. While not serious, leg cramps can be pretty uncomfortable.

Try stretching your leg and pulling your toes back towards your knee to alleviate them. Another helpful tip is to stand up and put your weight on the affected leg.

These simple techniques can provide relief and help you get some much-needed rest.

Some of the other symptoms you can expect might include:

  • Tiredness and sleeping problems
  • Stretch marks
  • Swollen and bleeding gums
  • Pains on the side of your baby bump, caused by your expanding womb ("round ligament pains")
  • Piles
  • Backache
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bloating and constipation
  • Feeling hot
  • Dizziness
  • Darkened skin on your face or brown patches – this is known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy."
  • Greasier, spotty skin
  • Thicker and shinier hair
  • Mood swings
  • Morning sickness
  • Weird pregnancy cravings
  • A heightened sense of smell
  • Sore or leaky breasts
  • A white milky pregnancy discharge from your vagina

What Does My Baby Look Like?

Week 25 of pregnancy is an awe-inspiring stage where your baby's growth and development flourish. Their eyelids open, granting them a glimpse into the world they will soon join.

Their brain waves, senses, and vital organs are all progressing, including their lungs, which are rapidly maturing. As you continue this incredible journey, cherish these milestones and marvel at the miracle baby in your tummy.

Your baby is on the path to becoming a resilient and thriving individual, ready to embrace the world with open arms.

How Big Is a Baby at 25 Weeks Pregnant?

By week 25, your baby is about the size of an aubergine (or eggplant). They weigh around 680 grams and measure about 33 centimetres from head to heel.

Birth Preparation Tips for Week 25

week 25 pregnancy tips

As your due date draws closer, it's a good time to start preparing for the big day. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

  • Continue to eat a healthy diet and exercise daily.
  • Explore your birthing options.
  • Sign up for antenatal/parenting classes.
  • Plan your maternity leave.
  • Make a list of the baby stuff you may need to borrow or buy.

What to Expect at Your 25-Week Midwife Appointment

Your midwife appointment at 25 weeks is an opportunity to ensure that you and your baby are healthy and progressing well. Here's what you can expect:

  • The midwife may use a tape measure to measure the size of your uterus and plot the measurement on a graph in your maternity notes.
  • Listen to your baby's heartbeat with a handheld doptone or pinard.
  • Measure your blood pressure and test your urine for protein.
  • Advise you to contact your maternity services at any time of day or night if you have any concerns about the baby's movements or if your baby's movements have stopped or are more or less than their usual pattern.

What Questions Should You Ask Your Midwife?

Your midwife is there to support you and address your concerns. Here are some questions you may consider asking:

  • How is my baby positioned at this stage?
  • Are there any specific exercises or stretches I should be doing?
  • What should I expect in terms of fetal movements?
  • Can you guide birth plans and pain relief options?
  • Are there any warning signs I should know in the third trimester?

Useful Links:

For more information and resources, check out the following links:

The 25-week midwife appointment marks an essential step in your pregnancy journey. Take this opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, and gather valuable information from your midwife.

Remember to take care of yourself, stay informed, and enjoy this magical time as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world.

Written By: Midwife Laura

Pregnancy, C-Section Prepc-sectionuk