Overview of Week 21 of pregnancy
During week 21 of pregnancy:
- Your baby is 10.5 inches long
- You are in trimester two
- 19 more weeks to go
- Length measurements now include the full body
You are now over halfway through your pregnancy. By this point, you probably have a good-sized baby bump and you may also be starting to see stretch marks forming. Your body has already gone through a lot of changes these past 4 months, and it still has so many changes to go through still. It is common during pregnancy to look at your body and not have it feel like your own. Instead of letting that bring you down, remember who you are doing this for and that holding your little bundle of joy at the end of this will all be worth it.
How many months pregnant is 21 weeks?
At 21 weeks pregnant, you are around 4 months and 3 weeks pregnant. You are in your second trimester. There are just over 4 more months left of pregnancy.
How big is baby at 21 weeks pregnant?
Your baby has now grown to 10.5 inches long. Seems like a big jump from last week? This is because your baby is now being measured from head to toe, instead of head to rump. Your little one is now stretching its legs out, making it easier to measure the whole body length. As for weight, your baby weighs approximately 12.5 ounces.
Baby development during week 21 of pregnancy
Eyes
During week 21 of pregnancy, your baby’s eyelids are starting to develop. It will take a bit longer for them to be fully developed though. When they are, your little one will finally start to open their eyes.
Tastebuds
Little tastebuds are forming on your baby’s tongue. This week, your baby may also be able to taste the foods you are eating. This is because your little one is swallowing your amniotic fluids. Some research shows that the foods you are eating now change the taste of the amniotic fluid and will influence the tastes that your baby enjoys later in life.
Pregnancy Week 21 Symptoms
Braxton-Hicks
Braxton-Hick contractions are false labor pains caused by the contraction of the uterus. They are not contractions that indicate that labor is coming; but instead, prepare your body for labor. Unlike labor contractions, these contractions come irregularly and do not increase in length or strength. They can feel uncomfortable and like mild menstrual cramps. You may start to feel Braxton-Hicks at any time in your pregnancy from now on.
Back pain
Now that your baby bump is growing, you might start to experience back pain. Back pain in pregnancy usually begins in the second trimester and is characterized as a dull or achy pain in the lower back. To relieve pain, try to keep a good posture. If your belly is bigger, you may want to try a pregnancy band to relieve some of the pressure out of your back. Heat pads or massage may also help to relieve some pain.
Swelling
Swelling in pregnancy is a normal symptom that usually starts in the second trimester and may worsen towards the end of pregnancy. Excess fluids in the body and pressure from your growing uterus can cause water retention in the feet, ankles, and hands. If you notice your fingers starting to swell, you should remove any rings until the swelling goes down. Let your doctor or midwife know if the swelling worsens or if there is a large amount in your face or around your eyes.
Heartburn
Pregnancy hormones may allow the muscles in the esophagus to relax more frequently, allowing stomach acids to push back up into the esophagus. This is what causes the burning sensation in your chest, known as heartburn or acid reflux. Unfortunately, this is one of those pregnancy symptoms that will come and go all throughout your pregnancy. Over-the-counter medications, such as Tums or Rolaids, can help to reduce any discomfort. If any pain persists, it is best to talk to your doctor about other medications that may be available.
Stretch marks
You may have started to notice stretch marks forming on your belly and breasts. These indented, purple, red, or blue lines occur when skin is stretched quickly. It is difficult to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy and they are usually permanent scars. You may not be able to avoid them completely, but you can start to use lotions and oils on your belly and breasts to help reduce the severity of the marks.
Pregnancy week 21 tips
Take pictures
Have you taken your weekly baby bump photo yet? These pictures will be a good memory to look back on and it is a fun way to show your belly growing throughout your pregnancy. In fact, if you have been taking pictures since the beginning of your pregnancy, you will probably already see some transformation.
Start a baby registry
This is a good time to start a baby registry. A baby registry is a list of baby items at a particular store that goes on your wish list. Friends and family can then look at this list and buy items they can give you at your baby shower. Popular baby registry items include diapers, clothing, and toys.
Come up with baby names
Now that you know the sex of your baby, you can start to brainstorm baby names. You and your partner can both come up with a list, which you can compare and narrow down the options. Decide if you would like a common name, a modern name, or a unique name. You can download baby name apps, watch baby naming videos or just look through baby books to help brainstorm.
Prenatal classes
Take some time and research any prenatal classes in your area that may be of interest to you. Not only are birthing classes something to look into, but you may not have considered the other options available to you. Prenatal yoga or exercise classes are fun ways to get in some movement and meet other expecting moms. Your area may also have a special prenatal women’s group for expecting mothers to meet up and socialize.
