Table of Contents
What’s happening inside?
At 21 weeks, your baby is now the size of a carrot and weighs around 360 grams. Inside your womb, your baby’s digestive system is being developed and his/her taste buds are being formed. You may be surprised to know that your baby can now taste what you eat! The lungs are also developing, and your baby is practicing breathing movements by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. Additionally, the bone marrow is producing red blood cells to supply enough oxygen for your baby’s growing body.
Body Changes
By this stage, you may be experiencing a noticeable baby bump. Your uterus is now around the size of a cantaloupe, and you may notice that your skin is stretching, causing itchiness and dryness. Don’t worry, it’s completely normal! Your hair and nails may also be growing faster due to hormonal changes in your body.
Common Symptoms
At 21 weeks, you may experience different symptoms such as:
- Increased appetite
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Backaches
- Varicose veins
- Mood swings
- Breast enlargement and tenderness
- Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions)
If you experience any severe symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain or a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Gender Reveal
If you’re curious to know whether you’re having a boy or a girl, this is the ideal time to find out! An ultrasound scan will be able to determine the gender of your baby, but keep in mind that it may not be 100% accurate.
Preparing for Your Baby
At 21 weeks, it’s a good time to start preparing for your baby’s arrival. Some things you can do include:
- Shop for baby clothes, diapers, and other essentials
- Prepare your baby’s nursery
- Enroll in childbirth classes
- Choose a pediatrician
- Start your baby registry
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my baby hear me at 21 weeks?
A: Yes, your baby can now hear sounds outside of the womb, including your voice and music.
Q: Is it safe to travel during pregnancy?
A: It’s typically safe to travel during pregnancy, but it’s important to check with your healthcare provider first. They may advise against travel during certain stages of pregnancy or if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Q: When should I start packing my hospital bag?
A: It’s a good idea to start packing your hospital bag around 35-36 weeks, just in case your baby decides to make an early appearance.
Q: Can I still exercise during pregnancy?
A: Yes, exercise is important during pregnancy, but it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first about what types of exercise are safe for you and your baby.
Q: How often should I go to prenatal appointments?
A: Your healthcare provider will typically schedule prenatal appointments every 4 weeks until 28 weeks, then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, and then weekly until delivery.