logo
Home
Preconception
Pregnancy
Postpartum
Newborn & Infant
PregnancySecond Trimester
Week 21
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21

Weeks

22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
baby size

In the Week 21, your baby is
the size of a Carrot

Week 21 of Pregnancy

Your baby is growing fast and you may feel their first movements. Your belly is showing, and your energy is up!

Content Banner

All you need to know

Welcome to week 21 of your pregnancy journey! As you enter the second half of your pregnancy, your baby is growing and developing at a remarkable pace. This week marks a significant milestone in your baby's growth and your own physical changes. Let's explore what's happening inside your womb and how your body is adapting to support your growing little one.
 

article Image
Pregnancy
Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Balancing Nutrition and Health

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Understand pregnancy weight gain, nutrition tips, and health guidelines for a healthy journey. Insights for you and your baby.

article Image
Pregnancy
Importance of Prenatal Vitamins in the First Trimester

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Learn why prenatal vitamins are vital during the first trimester for foetal development and maternal well-being.
  

article Image
Pregnancy
Managing Stress During Pregnancy Through Ayurveda

Dr. Aswathi AT

Explore Ayurvedic methods for stress relief during pregnancy, including yoga, therapies, and dietary tips.

article Image
Pregnancy
Ayurveda Nutrition for Expecting Mothers: A Holistic View.

Dr. Aswathi AT

Discover Ayurvedic nutrition tips for expecting mothers to ensure a healthy pregnancy through diet, lifestyle, and emotional well-being.

article Image
Pregnancy
Diabetes During Pregnancy - How Ayurveda Can Help?

Dr. Aswathi AT

Discover how Ayurveda manages gestational diabetes with diet, lifestyle, and herbs for balanced blood sugar.

View all articles
On this page

Week 21 of Pregnancy

All you need to know

Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms
 

Your Baby in Week 21

Your Body in Week 21 

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

Week 21 of Pregnancy

All you need to know

Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms
 

Your Baby in Week 21

Your Body in Week 21 

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

On this page

Week 21 of Pregnancy

Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms
 

At 21 weeks pregnant, you may experience a range of symptoms as your body continues to adapt to the growing baby. Some common symptoms include:
 

Content Banner
  • 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: You may experience leg cramps, especially at night. Stretching your legs before bed and staying hydrated can help prevent and relieve these cramps.
     

Your Baby in Week 21

At 21 weeks, your baby is making incredible progress in their development. Here's what's happening inside your womb:
 

Content Banner

Baby’s Growth in the Womb

  • Organ Development: Your baby's digestive system is developing rapidly. The intestines are now fully formed, and the baby is swallowing amniotic fluid, which helps prepare their digestive system for functioning after birth. The liver and spleen are also producing blood cells, although the bone marrow will soon take over this function.
  • Physical Features: Your baby's fingers and toes are fully formed, complete with unique fingerprints and toe prints. Fine hair called lanugo covers the body, and oil glands are producing a protective substance called vernix caseosa to keep the skin moisturised. If you're having a boy, his testes have formed but remain in his abdomen. Tooth buds for permanent teeth are also starting to develop.
  • 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 slowing down compared to earlier weeks, your baby continues to gain weight and develop steadily.
  • Movement of the Baby: You may start to feel your baby's movements more distinctly now. The kicks and turns are becoming stronger, and you might even notice patterns in their activity. Your baby can also swallow and occasionally hiccup, causing jerky movements that you can feel.
     

Here is what your baby looks like

Month 6

<p>Month 6</p>

Your baby is about the size of a Corn on the cob

Month 7

<p>Month 7</p>

Your baby is about the size of an Egg Plant

Month 8

<p>Month 8</p>

Your baby is about the size of a Romaine Lettuce

quote img

At 21 weeks, your baby is growing quickly, and you’re feeling more connected every day. Keep shining, mama—you’re doing great!

Dr. Veena H

Your Body in Week 21 

As your baby grows, your body undergoes various changes to accommodate and support their development. Here's what you can expect in week 21:
 

Content Banner

Physiological Changes During Week 21 of Pregnancy

  • 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 up to 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.
     

TopTips for Week 21

background

Early arrival 

Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance. 

background

Labor check-up

If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis

background

Childbirth prep

Enrol yourself in prenatal courses to learn different labour stages and what to expect.

background

Preterm signs

If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials.

background

Take Prenatal Vitamins

Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

Regular prenatal checkups are essential to monitor your health and your baby's development. At 21 weeks, you may have the following tests and scans:
 

Content Banner
  • Anomaly Scan

Also known as the mid-pregnancy ultrasound, this detailed scan is usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks. It allows your doctor to assess your baby's growth, check for any structural abnormalities, and determine the position of the placenta.

  • 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 any signs of urinary tract infections or other potential complications.

  • Fundal Height Measurement

Your doctor will measure the distance from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus (fundus) to assess your baby's growth and the amount of amniotic fluid.
 

FAQs

Can I feel my baby's hiccups at 21 weeks?

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.

Is it normal to have Braxton Hicks contractions at 21 weeks?

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.

How much weight should I have gained by 21 weeks?

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.

Can I sleep on my back at 21 weeks pregnant?

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.

Is it safe to exercise at 21 weeks pregnant?

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.

What should I eat to support my baby's growth at 21 weeks?

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.

Is it normal to experience mood swings at 21 weeks pregnant?

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.

How can I bond with my baby at 21 weeks?

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.