In the Week 21, your baby is
the size of a Carrot
Your baby is growing fast and you may feel their first movements. Your belly is showing, and your energy is up!
Welcome to week 21 of your pregnancy journey! As you enter the second half of your pregnancy, your baby is growing and developing remarkably. This week marks a significant milestone in your baby's growth. Let's explore what's happening inside your womb and how your body adapts to support your growing little one.
At 21 weeks pregnant, you may experience various symptoms as your body adapts to the growing baby. Some common symptoms include:
Backaches
As your belly grows, you may experience backaches due to the added weight and shifting centre of gravity. Engaging in gentle exercises and maintaining good posture can help alleviate discomfort.
Heartburn and indigestion
Your growing uterus may push against your stomach, leading to heartburn and indigestion. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods can help manage these symptoms.
Hot flashes
Hormonal changes and increased metabolic rate during pregnancy can cause hot flashes. Staying hydrated and wearing breathable clothing can help you stay comfortable.
Leg Cramps and Oedema
You may experience leg cramps, especially at night. Fluid buildup and the pressure from your growing uterus can also lead to oedema and varicose veins. Stretching your legs before bed and staying hydrated can help prevent and relieve these cramps.
At 21 weeks, your baby is making incredible progress in their development. Here's what's happening inside your womb:
Organ Development
Your baby's digestive system is developing rapidly. The intestines are fully formed, and the baby is swallowing amniotic fluid, which helps prepare the digestive system for functioning after birth. The liver and spleen also produce blood cells, although the bone marrow will soon take over this function.
Physical Features
Your baby's fingers and toes are fully formed with unique fingerprints. Fine hair called lanugo hair covers the body, and oil glands produce a protective substance called vernix caseosa to keep the skin moisturised. Tooth buds for permanent teeth are also developing in the jaws.
Weight of the Foetus
At 21 weeks, your baby weighs approximately 350 grams and measures around 27 cm from crown to heel. Although the growth rate is relatively slow compared to earlier weeks, your baby continues to gain weight and grow steadily.
Movement of the Baby
You may feel your baby's movements more distinctly now. The kicks and turns are becoming stronger, and you might notice patterns in their activity. Your baby can also swallow and occasionally hiccup, causing noticeable jerky movements.
At 21 weeks, your baby is growing quickly, and you’re feeling more connected every day. Keep shining, mama—you’re doing great!
As your baby grows, your body undergoes various changes to accommodate and support their development. Here's what you can expect in week 21:
Breast Changes
Your breasts continue to grow and prepare for breastfeeding. You may notice your nipples becoming more prominent and possibly leaking small amounts of colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk.
Hair, Skin, and Nails
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect your hair, skin, and nails. You may experience faster hair and nail growth, as well as changes in skin texture and pigmentation. Some women develop a dark line (linea nigra) running vertically down the centre of their belly.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular System
As your uterus grows, it may push against your diaphragm, causing shortness of breath. Your heart rate may also increase slightly to accommodate the increased blood volume and support the growing baby.
Vaginal Discharge
You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This is normal and helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Uterus Size and Position
At 21 weeks, your uterus may reach your navel. This growth can make your belly more noticeable, and you may start to feel the top of your uterus (fundus) about 6-8 cm below your belly button.
Placenta Position
The placenta continues to grow and develop alongside your baby. It plays a crucial role in providing oxygen and nutrients to your baby and removing waste products. The placenta's position can vary, and your doctor will assess its location during ultrasound scans.
Prenatal guide
Attend all your prenatal appointments like vaccinations, tests, ultrasounds
to track vitals
Hospital check-in
If you notice blood in discharge or your water breaks, head to the hospital immediately
Diet check
Always seek your doctor’s advice to make sure your diet intake is safe for you.
Choose together
Make an informed decision along with your family about your pregnancy treatment options.
Calm labour
Practice yoga or hypnotherapy techniques to ease stress and discomfort in abnormal labour.
Healthy gains
Gaining weight during pregnancy is normal, a gain of 11-14 kgs during 9 months is healthy.
Monthly prenatal checkups are essential to monitor your health and your baby's development. If due, your monthly visit at 21 weeks may include:
Anomaly Scan
Also known as the anatomy or anomaly scan and mid-trimester ultrasound, this detailed scan is usually performed between weeks 18 and 22. It provides a detailed anatomical assessment of the fetus, examining the heart, bones, kidneys, and brain.
It also includes screening for anomalies in fetal development and overall growth. The scan evaluates the placenta position (to rule out placenta previa), checks the umbilical cord for proper blood flow, and monitors amniotic fluid levels.
Additionally, ultrasound measures the cervical length and observes fetal activity to ensure the baby’s well-being.
Blood Tests
Your doctor may recommend blood tests to check your iron levels, screen for gestational diabetes, or assess your immunity to certain infections.
Urine Tests
Routine urine tests help detect signs of urinary tract infections, proteins in urine, or other potential complications.
Fundal Height Measurement
Fundal height, the distance from the top of the uterus to the pubic bone, is measured in centimetres starting around 20 weeks of pregnancy. It helps assess fetal growth, estimate gestational age, determine fetal position, and identify risks for perinatal complications.
Yes, it's possible to feel your baby's hiccups at 21 weeks. They may feel like rhythmic, jerky movements in your belly and are completely normal.
Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions can occur as early as the second trimester. They are usually irregular, not painful, and help prepare your uterus for labour.
Weight gain during pregnancy varies for each woman. On average, women with a healthy pre-pregnancy weight gain about 0.5-1 pound per week in the second trimester.
It's generally recommended to avoid sleeping on your back after the first trimester, as the growing uterus can put pressure on major blood vessels. Sleeping on your side, particularly your left side, is the most comfortable and safest position.
Yes, exercise during pregnancy is generally safe and beneficial. However, it's important to consult your doctor for personalised guidance based on your health and pregnancy. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are usually recommended.
A balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for your baby's growth. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Ensure you're getting enough folic acid, iron, and calcium. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, fish high in mercury, and unpasteurised dairy products.
Yes, mood swings are common throughout pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It's important to take care of your emotional well-being by getting enough rest, practising relaxation techniques, and seeking support from loved ones or a doctor if needed.
There are several ways to bond with your baby at this stage. Talk or sing to your belly, gently massage your bump, and encourage your partner to do the same. You can also play soothing music or read stories to your baby.
