Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Introduction
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the 21st week of your pregnancy! By now, you’re probably starting to feel the baby’s movements more frequently and it’s an exciting time. At this stage, your baby is about the size of a carrot and weighs about 13 ounces. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at what’s happening with your baby’s development in the 21st week of pregnancy.
Baby Development In 21st Week Of Pregnancy
Your baby’s sensory and motor skills are becoming more refined as they grow in the 21st week of pregnancy. They can now detect light and dark through the skin and the eyes are sensitive enough to perceive light outside the womb. Your baby is also developing taste buds and may even be able to taste the amniotic fluid they’re swimming in.
At this stage, the baby is developing a layer of fat under their skin to help regulate body temperature. Their lungs are also developing rapidly, with the production of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs inflated, starting in this week. This is an important stage in lung development as it prepares the baby for breathing outside the womb.
Your baby’s digestive system is also getting ready for the outside world as they start to practice swallowing and digesting the amniotic fluid. The digestive system is not fully developed yet, but it’s getting there.
Your baby’s bone marrow has taken over red blood cell production, which was previously done by the liver and spleen. This is a crucial development as it helps your baby produce blood cells more efficiently.
Finally, your baby’s hearing is becoming more sophisticated as they can now perceive sounds more accurately. You might want to start talking or singing to your baby, as they can recognize your voice and respond to it.
How To Take Care Of Yourself During This Stage
As your baby’s development increases, it’s important to take care of yourself too. Here are a few tips:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Get enough rest
- Exercise gently (with your doctor’s approval)
- Wear comfortable clothing
Conclusion
The 21st week of pregnancy is an exciting time as your baby’s development continues to progress. From taste buds to lung development, your baby is growing stronger every day. Remember to take care of yourself during this time and enjoy the journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I feel my baby’s movements at 21 weeks?
A: Yes, you should be able to feel your baby’s movements by this stage.
Q: What should I do if I experience cramping or bleeding?
A: If you experience cramping or bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Q: How much weight should I have gained by 21 weeks?
A: Most women will have gained between 10-15 pounds by 21 weeks.
Q: Can my baby hear me at 21 weeks?
A: Yes, your baby’s hearing is becoming more sophisticated and they can recognize your voice.
Q: Is it safe to travel during the 21st week of pregnancy?
A: It’s generally safe to travel during this stage of pregnancy, but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before making any plans.