Your baby

At 25 weeks your baby’s heart is beating at about 140 beats per minute – much faster than it will beat after they are born. This week your baby’s eyelids will open for the first time. Their brain waves are regulating what they see and hear, and their senses are all improving. Their brain, lungs and digestive system are formed but they haven’t finished developing yet.

Their lungs are still maturing. Your baby would have about an 80% chance of surviving if they were born now and receive expert care in a neonatal unit, but they would still need help to breathe for quite a while.

Your body

As the uterus expands upwards you might feel uncomfortable around your ribs. You might also be experiencing indigestion and heartburn. You can help control these symptoms by eating smaller meals more often and avoiding some foods and drinks. If indigestion and heartburn are bothering you, speak to your doctor or midwife. Sometimes this can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as pre-eclampsia.

Another common problem you might start noticing is leg cramps, especially when you go to bed. They’re not serious but they can become quite uncomfortable. You can ease cramps by stretching your leg and pulling your toes back towards your knee, or by standing up and putting your weight on your leg.

Things to remember

As you near the end of the second trimester, it’s a good idea to talk to your partner or support person about going to hospital when the time comes. Think about how you will get there – don’t drive yourself – and what you will do if you can’t get hold of anyone when you go into labour. Remember, things might happen more quickly than you expect, so having a plan in place will help you know what to do if you get taken by surprise.

Resources and support

Speak to your doctor, midwife or obstetrician if you have questions about your pregnancy.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby also has more information on:

• maternity care in Australia
• having a healthy pregnancy
• exploring the anatomy of pregnancy and birth
• checkups, screenings, scans and tests you can have during your pregnancy
• common conditions you might experience during your pregnancy
• looking after your mental health and wellbeing

Speak to a maternal child health nurse

Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.