Source: bing.comTable of Contents
What’s happening with your baby?
Congratulations mommy-to-be! You have now reached week 21 of your pregnancy, which means your baby is now the size of a banana! This week, your baby is about 10.5 inches long and weighs around 12.7 ounces. At this stage, baby’s body now has more proportionate features and a more recognizable face. Their lips are fully formed and their taste buds are already functioning, which means they can distinguish the taste of the amniotic fluid from time to time.
Your baby’s digestive system is now starting to work as well. Their intestines are actively producing meconium, which is the baby’s first bowel movement, composed of digestive waste, amniotic fluid, and other cell debris. Their eyes are also starting to develop and produce tears, which will help to keep them moist and clean.
Moreover, your baby’s movements are getting stronger by the day. You may feel some kicks or jabs as they stretch their arms and legs. In fact, they can now start to twist and turn in their home inside your womb.
What’s happening with you?
As your baby grows, your uterus is expanding to accommodate their size, which means your belly is also getting bigger. At this stage, you may start to see stretch marks on your belly, breasts, hips, and thighs. Don’t worry, stretch marks are a normal part of pregnancy, and they will eventually fade after you give birth.
You may also experience some swelling in your feet and ankles, which is caused by the pressure of the growing uterus on your blood vessels. To avoid this, try to elevate your feet whenever possible, and avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Furthermore, you may feel more tired than usual at week 21 of your pregnancy. This is completely normal, and it is a sign that your body needs more rest. Make sure you get plenty of rest and sleep, and don’t hesitate to take naps whenever you feel tired.
What should you do?
During this stage of your pregnancy, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and drink plenty of water. Make sure you are eating a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. This will help to ensure that your baby is getting all of the nutrients they need to grow and develop.
It is also important to continue with your prenatal care. Make sure you attend all of your scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns that you may have. Your healthcare provider will also monitor your blood pressure and weight to make sure that everything is going well.
Finally, take some time to relax and enjoy this special time in your life. Read some books about pregnancy, take a prenatal yoga class, or spend some time with your partner. This will help you to reduce stress and feel more relaxed, which is important for both you and your baby.
FAQs
Q: Can I still exercise at week 21 of my pregnancy?
A: Yes, you can still exercise during your pregnancy, but make sure to talk to your healthcare provider first. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are usually safe and recommended during pregnancy.
Q: Can I still have sex during my pregnancy?
A: Yes, you can still have sex during your pregnancy, but make sure to talk to your healthcare provider first. As long as your pregnancy is healthy and there are no complications, sex during pregnancy is safe for both you and your baby.
Q: When should I start preparing for my baby’s arrival?
A: It’s never too early to start preparing for your baby’s arrival. You can start by creating a registry, setting up a nursery, and buying baby essentials like a crib, stroller, and car seat.
Q: Can I travel during my pregnancy?
A: It depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy and whether or not you have any complications. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before you plan any trips or vacations during your pregnancy.
Q: How much weight should I gain during my pregnancy?
A: The amount of weight you should gain during your pregnancy depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. Generally, women who were underweight before pregnancy should gain more weight, while women who were overweight before pregnancy should gain less weight. Your healthcare provider can give you more specific recommendations based on your individual needs.